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Semin Plast Surg 2010; 24(1): 005-010
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1253241
© Thieme Medical Publishers

High-Energy Trauma and Damage Control in the Lower Limb

LTC Charles J. Fox1 , 2 , MAJ Peter Kreishman1 , 2
  • 1Department of Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
  • 2Division of Vascular Surgery, Uniformed University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
05 May 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Management of traumatic lower-limb vascular injury can offer special challenges even to experienced surgeons. Recent U.S. conflicts have advanced the practice of vascular trauma surgery on the battlefield and offer important lessons learned for management of similar injury in urban trauma centers. Damage control techniques for complex injuries when associated with hemodynamic instability may provide an opportunity to save both life and limb. This article provides an overview of damage control principles in the management of high-energy traumatic vascular injuries of the lower limb during recent U.S. military combat operations.

KEYWORDS

Vascular trauma - massive transfusion - damage control - resuscitation - combat - wartime - military

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LTC Charles J FoxM.D. F.A.C.S. 

Program Director, Vascular Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Vascular Surgery

Bldg 2, Ward 64, 6900 Georgia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20307

Email: Charles.Fox@us.army.mil