Femoral Artery Injuries in Closed Femur Shaft Fractures: Case Report

Surg J (N Y). 2022 Oct 13;8(3):e219-e223. doi: 10.1055/s-0042-1756206. eCollection 2022 Jul.

Abstract

Case 1 and 2 Two young male patients, sustained injury to the superficial femoral artery (SFA) following a closed femur shaft fracture. The arterial injuries were confirmed by computed tomography angiography and both underwent fracture fixation and on SFA exploration; a thrombosed arterial segment was noted at the fracture site, addressed with arteriotomy and thrombectomy to restore the vascularity. At 1-year follow-up, both patients had good union at the fracture site and a well-perfused limb. Conclusion Thorough clinical examination and appropriate diagnostic studies can diagnose these rare vascular injuries in closed fractures and with early vascular repair potentially limb-threatening complications can be prevented.

Keywords: closed femur shaft fracture; fasciotomy; intramedullary interlocking nail; superficial femoral artery; thrombectomy; vascular injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

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Funding None.