Vascular trauma in drug abuse: patterns of injury.

We have reviewed 172 occurrences of vascular injuries caused by intravascular or perivascular drug injections. Various patterns of injury are discussed including presentation. Recommendations have been made for diagnostic evaluation, surgical and medical treatment based on proposed pathophysiologic etiologies and bacteriology. Expected outcomes are presented. It is important that all physicians become familiar with the management of these injuries as the number of patients who seek treatment for complications of substance abuse continues to increase in our present day society.