S65.10

Clinical Causes: Trauma from falls or accidents causing cuts or blunt injuries Piercing injuries from sharp objects such as knives or needles Fractures of the distal radius or other wrist bones that damage the artery Sports injuries leading to lacerations or contusions Iatrogenic injuries during medical procedures or surgeries involving the wrist or hand Crush injuries from machinery or heavy objects

Key Symptoms: Pain, swelling, or tenderness at the wrist or hand Bleeding or hematoma near the injury site Weakness or numbness in the hand or fingers Coldness or pallor of the fingers due to reduced blood flow Decreased or absent radial pulse at the wrist Possible signs of tissue ischemia or gangrene if circulation is severely compromised

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing a radial artery injury typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and diagnostic tests. Medical professionals will examine the affected limb, checking for signs such as bleeding, pulse deficits, and tissue color changes. Non-invasive tests like Doppler ultrasound can help visualize blood flow in the artery. In some cases, angiography may be performed to get a detailed view of the blood vessels. These assessments help determine the severity of the injury and guide appropriate treatment planning.

Treatment Protocols: Management of a radial artery injury depends on the injury's severity and may include one or more of the following approaches: - **Compression and elevation** to control bleeding and reduce swelling - **Manual or surgical repair** to restore blood flow, which could involve suturing the artery or using grafts - **Application of a tourniquet** in emergency situations to temporarily control bleeding - **Antibiotic therapy** to prevent infection if the skin or vessel is punctured or lacerated - **Monitoring for signs of ischemia** and ensuring adequate circulation to the hand and fingers - **Rehabilitation** with physical therapy to regain function and strength once healing progresses In more complex cases, surgical intervention may include arterial bypass or vessel reconstruction, especially if there is extensive damage. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term complications such as tissue loss or impaired hand function.