Treatment Outcome of Traumatic Subclavian Artery Injuries

Background: Traumatic subclavian artery injuries are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Thoracic cage and clavicle provide a well protection of the underlying subclavian vessels and nerves and also cause a very limited operation space during open surgery. The endovascular modality is less invasive and alternative to conventional open surgical reconstruction. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the different therapeutic effects on limb salvage. Methods: A retrospective review of patients who presented with blunt or penetrating injuries to the subclavian arteries between March 2012 and March 2021. Results: Endovascular and open repairs were both effective for traumatic subclavian artery injury. There was no statistical difference in the limb salvage, mortality, procedure-related complication, reintervention rate and in-hospital medical complications. Intraoperative blood loss, red blood cell transfusion requirement and length of hospital stay were significantly lower in the endovascular intervention group. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment represents an attractive alternative to the traditional surgical approach for the treatment of traumatic injuries in the subclavian.