Major vascular injuries associated with orthopaedic injuries to the lower limb.

The management of 14 patients with combined orthopaedic and vascular injury of the lower limb have been reviewed. Six of the 14 limbs were amputated, 5 have a residual functional defect and 3 were restored to normal function. Delay in diagnosis and failure to treat the consequences of soft tissue injury and ischaemia were mainly responsible for the poor results. The results of internal fixation were poor and the possible use of external fixation has been discussed. The importance of a sound technique for vascular repair with post reconstruction on-table arteriography has also been discussed.