Effectiveness of surgical treatment for popliteal artery injury: A cross-sectional descriptive study

Abstract

Background: Popliteal artery injuries are among the most severe vascular traumas, often associated with high-energy impacts such as traffic accidents and workplace injuries. Due to the limited collateral circulation in the popliteal region, delays in revascularization can lead to irreversible ischemic damage and limb loss. This study evaluates the surgical treatment outcomes of popliteal artery injuries at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 120 patients with popliteal artery injuries who underwent emergency surgical revascularization at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital from January 2020 to August 2023. Data were collected retrospectively for cases from January 2020 to December 2022 and prospectively for cases from January to August 2023. Surgical techniques included end-to-end anastomosis, autologous vein grafting, and angioplasty. Limb salvage rates, postoperative complications, and long-term functional outcomes were analyzed. Results: The study population had a mean age of 32.4 years, with traffic accidents being the leading cause of injury (85.83%). End-to-end anastomosis (47.5%) and vascular grafting (36.66%) were the most common surgical techniques. The overall limb salvage rate was 95.83%, with five cases (4.16%) requiring secondary amputation due to irreversible ischemic damage. Early postoperative complications included infection (27.5%), anemia (23.33%), and muscle necrosis (15%). Long-term follow-up showed that 96.61% of patients had good limb function, while 2.5% experienced sensory and motor deficits. Timely surgical intervention significantly improved limb salvage in popliteal artery injuries. Conclusion: Despite a high success rate, complications remain a challenge, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and long-term rehabilitation. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and reduce postoperative complications.