Gefäßtraumen

Gefäßtraumen, also known as vascular traumas, refer to injuries involving blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries. These injuries can result from various causes such as blunt force, penetrating trauma, surgical procedures, or iatrogenic events. The severity of a vascular trauma varies depending on the vessel involved, the extent of damage, and the location.

Common types of gefäßtraumen include lacerations, punctures, ruptures, and tears. Arterial injuries tend to be more life-threatening due to rapid blood loss, given their high-pressure system. Venous injuries, although usually less severe in terms of bleeding, can still lead to significant circulatory compromise or hematoma formation. Capillary injuries are typically minor but may still contribute to bleeding or tissue damage.

Clinical presentation depends on the injury's location and severity. Signs may include bleeding, hematoma formation, distal ischemia if blood flow is compromised, swelling, or signs of shock in severe cases. Diagnostic evaluation often involves physical examination, duplex ultrasonography, computed tomography angiography (CTA), or conventional angiography to determine injury extent and vessel integrity.

Management of gefäßtraumen may include direct surgical repair, vessel ligation, or endovascular interventions such as stent placement or embolization. The primary goal is to control hemorrhage, restore blood flow, and prevent complications like limb ischemia or infection. In some cases, conservative management may be appropriate, especially if bleeding is minimal and vessel integrity is maintained.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with vascular injuries. Due to the potential for rapid deterioration, a multidisciplinary approach involving trauma surgeons, vascular specialists, and radiologists is often necessary.