Thrombosis of the brachial artery after closed dislocation of the elbow.
The brachial artery is rarely injured after closed dislocation of the elbow. We describe an unusual variation of this injury, namely, a delayed thrombosis of the brachial artery after a closed dislocation sustained during a low-energy fall. This has not previously been described in the English literature, but may be more common than this suggests. We stress the importance of a thorough neurovascular examination and vigilance in regard to this potentially disastrous complication.
Garrigues
G E
GE
Duke University Medical Centre, Box 3000, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA. garri016@mc.duke.edu
Patel
M B
MB
Colletti
T P
TP
Weaver
J P
JP
Mallon
W J
WJ
D000058:Accidental Falls; D001916:Brachial Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000092464:Elbow Injuries