In-Theater Management of Vascular Injury: 2 Years of the Balad Vascular Registry

Abstract

This evaluation represents the first in-theater report of wartime vascular injury since Vietnam. Extremity injuries continue to predominate, although the incidence of vascular injury appears to be somewhat increased. Local forces and civilians now represent a substantial proportion of those injured. The principles of rapid evacuation, temporary shunting, and early reconstruction are effective, with satisfactory early in-theater limb salvage.