ACUTE LIMB ISCHEMIA AFTER IATROGENIC TRAU MA

Objectives: Assess the frequency, severity and technical problems rais ed by iatrogenic trauma to the arteries. Method: A retrospective study of 45 cases of iatrogenic arterial trauma treated over a 25-year peri od was studied. Results: The most frequent cause was arterial catheter ism (n=32 including 24 of the lower limbs and 8 for the upper limbs) p erformed for arteriography (n=16), coronarography (n=13) or endovascul ar therapy (n=3). Thrombectomy was performed in 24 cases, bypass in 4 and endarteriectomy in 4. Post-operative period was uneventful in all except two fatal cases. Conclusion: In most cases, iatrogenic arterial trauma can be avoided with proper technique. Prognosis is highly depe ndent on early care.