Iatrogenic blunt arterial injury during a hip fracture surgery
Bansal, R.; Laing, P.W.
Acta Orthopaedica Belgica 72(1): 96-99
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6462 PMID: 16570904 Document Number: 599659
Iatrogenic non-penetrating arterial injuries have been reported following primary and revision hip arthroplasties. We report a patient who developed acute limb ischaemia after dynamic hip screw fixation was performed for an unstable intertrochanteric fracture. We discuss a previously unreported mechanism of traction creating tension on the atherosclerosed vessels and medial retraction tenting and breaking the vessel wall lining. This case highlights a serious complication in one of the most commonly performed hip surgeries.