Vacuum-assisted closure complicated by erosion and hemorrhage of the anterior tibial artery

J Orthop Trauma. 2005 Jan;19(1):56-9. doi: 10.1097/00005131-200501000-00011.

Abstract

We report an erosion and hemorrhage of a left anterior tibial artery associated with a vacuum-assisted closure device. To our knowledge, this report represents the first arterial erosion associated with a vacuum-assisted closure device. We estimate our patient lost 6 units of blood. The hemorrhage was complicated by anticoagulation and a traumatic setting. Based on our complication, we believe great care should be taken when placing a vacuum-assisted closure device adjacent to an exposed artery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Traffic
  • Adult
  • Fibula / injuries
  • Fibula / surgery
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery*
  • Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Hemorrhage / surgery
  • Hip Fractures / complications
  • Hip Fractures / surgery
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / complications
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery
  • Male
  • Multiple Trauma
  • Occlusive Dressings / adverse effects*
  • Orthopedic Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods
  • Tibial Arteries / injuries*
  • Tibial Fractures / complications
  • Tibial Fractures / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vacuum
  • Wound Healing