Tratamiento endovascular de una lesión contusa de la arteria axilar

Introduction. Traumatic injuries to the axillary artery are infrequent, and when they do occur they are mostly due to penetrating trauma. Their treatment using conventional surgery is associated to high morbidity and mortality rates. The use of endovascular techniques offers fewer risks with better outcomes in selected cases. Case report. An 88-year-old female who suffered multiple trauma with fracture of the neck of the left humerus, multiple rib fractures and acute ischaemia of the left upper limb. Arteriography revealed a thrombosis of the axillary artery associated to an intimal dissection, which was successfully treated by means of a thrombectomy and placement of a self-expanding stent. Conclusions. Endovascular treatment must be considered for managing injuries to the axillary arteries secondary to closed traumatic injuries and is a safe, effective alternative to open surgery. [ANGIOLOGÍA 2008; 60: 371-4]