Work

Traumatic popliteal artery injury required total gastrocnemius muscle resection: A case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Popliteal artery injury (PAI) is one of the challenging trauma because it requires prompt revascularization and appropriate management for the associated injuries. Blood flow to the muscles may be interrupted due to injury to branches from the main trunk of the popliteal artery. Muscles with interrupted blood flow require early debridement to prevent infection; however, extensive resection of the lower leg muscles can lead to functional impairment. We have experienced the treatment of a patient who required total gastrocnemius muscle resection because blood flow to the gastrocnemius muscle was interrupted due to traumatic popliteal artery injury. One year after the injury, the patient was able to walk without any problems and returned to his work. Although sprinting is difficult, jogging was possible. In addition, the patient was able to stand on tiptoe on the affected limb. Range of motion of knee and ankle, and functional score of knee joint was good. If the patient is young and intensive training for soleus muscle strength is performed, there may be no persistent major functional impairment. • Blood flow to the muscles may be interrupted due to popliteal artery injury. • Extensive resection of the ischemic muscles in can lead to functional impairment. • Resection of the gastrocnemius muscle does not lead to major functional impairment.

Source: Trauma Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.tcr.2025.101166

Authors: Yuta Izawa, Hiroko Murakami, Kazuo Sato, Mizuki Minegishi, Yoshihiko Tsuchida

Institutions: Sapporo Higashi Tokushukai Hospital, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Vascular Procedures and Complications

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,190