Arterial shunting as an adjunct to major limb revascularization.

Temporary arterial and venous shunting has been employed to reduce warm ischemia in major limb replantation and revascularization on eight occasions. This has allowed identification of vital structures, thorough debridement, and rigid internal or external skeletal fixation prior to definitive arterial repair. Arterial shunting has not been associated with any significant complications and has improved our operative technique in these severe vascular injuries.