Evaluation of forearm arterial repairs: Functional outcomes related to arterial repair

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There are few studies of single forearm arterial injury repair that compare long-term results of intact and obliterated forearm arterial repair. Aim of the present study was to compare long-term results of forearm arterial repair using Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score and color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS). METHODS: Records of 166 consecutive patients with forearm arterial injury were reviewed, and 30 patients with same injury (ulnar artery, ulnar nerve, and tendon injuries at flexor zone V) were called back for CDUS and QuickDASH scoring. Patients evaluated with CDUS were divided into 2 groups according to results: patent vessels (Group 1) and obliterated vessels (Group 2), and statistical analysis was performed to compare QuickDASH scores of groups. RESULTS: Difference in QuickDASH scores was statistically significant: Group 1 had lower score (24.27) than Group 2 (36.34), indicating better outcome in patients with patent vessels. CONCLUSION: Vascular repair that achieved vessel patency led to better functional outcome with lower QuickDASH score and less cold intolerance.