[Traumatic rupture of the brachial artery due to a closed elbow joint dislocation].

A rare complication of a brachial artery rupture as a result of a closed elbow dislocation is presented. If vascular damage is suspected angiography must be carried out and if signs of ischemia are present on the affected arm an immediate operational intervention with vascular reconstruction is necessary. The problems associated with this type of injury are discussed on the basis of the current literature.