Gunshot shrapnel wound of the thigh with damage to the superficial femoral artery (features of clinical manifestations, development of complications with late medical care and preservation of the limb)

Abstract

The aim: To demonstrate the features of clinical manifestations and complications that occur with delayed medical treatment in cases of gunshot shrapnel through a wound of the thigh with damage to the superficial femoral artery. Materials and methods: The wounded individual, S., was 52 years old and had sustained a gunshot wound through a shrapnel wound of the left thigh with damage to the superficial femoral artery and soft tissue defect. Medical assistance was provided during the stages of medical evacuation. Results: The soldier sustained a gunshot wound through the upper third of the left thigh, resulting in damage to the vascular-nerve bundle and a soft tissue defect. First aid was provided at the scene, and surgical procedures were performed during the stages of medical evacuation, including primary surgical treatment of wounds in the upper third of the left thigh. On the second day following the injury, the wounded man was transferred to the Vinnytsia Military Medical Clinical Center and admitted to the vascular surgery department. After an ultrasound examination and repeated surgical treatment of the wound on the left thigh, damage to the superficial femoral artery was identified. Conclusions: The presence of features of blood circulation in gunshot wounds of the main vessels of the lower limbs can favorably affect the possibility of saving the limb, as evidenced by the case presented.