A López-Hualda1, H Valencia-García, J Martínez-Martín. 1. Servicio de Cirugía Ortopédica y Traumatología, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, Alcorcón, Madrid, España. alhualda@hotmail.com
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Knee dislocation is an unusual condition, and can have catastrophic consequences, such as vascular and neurological complications, in addition to the ligament injuries. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of a protocol of early diagnosis of vascular injuries associated with knee dislocations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted which included acute knee dislocations treated in our institution, with a minimum of 12 months follow-up, between 1999-2010. A diagnostic protocol based on physical examination and ankle-brachial index was used in order to detect vascular injuries. RESULTS: Ten dislocations, 30% with popliteal artery injury, were diagnosed early and received emergency treatment within 8 hours. There were associated neurological injuries in two patients. There were no amputations. CONCLUSIONS: The systematic use of this protocol has avoided consequences of late diagnosis and has drastically reduced the abusive use of invasive tests, such as arteriography.
INTRODUCTION:Knee dislocation is an unusual condition, and can have catastrophic consequences, such as vascular and neurological complications, in addition to the ligament injuries. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyse the effectiveness of a protocol of early diagnosis of vascular injuries associated with knee dislocations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted which included acute knee dislocations treated in our institution, with a minimum of 12 months follow-up, between 1999-2010. A diagnostic protocol based on physical examination and ankle-brachial index was used in order to detect vascular injuries. RESULTS: Ten dislocations, 30% with popliteal artery injury, were diagnosed early and received emergency treatment within 8 hours. There were associated neurological injuries in two patients. There were no amputations. CONCLUSIONS: The systematic use of this protocol has avoided consequences of late diagnosis and has drastically reduced the abusive use of invasive tests, such as arteriography.