Development and Implementation of Endovascular Capabilities in Wartime

• DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e31816b6564
• Publication Date: 2008-05-05T08:10:53Z
• Authors: Todd E. Rasmussen; W Darrin Clouse; Michael A. Peck; Andrew N. Bowser; Jonathan L. Eliason; Mitchell W. Cox; E Baylor Woodward; W Tracey Jones; Donald H. Jenkins
• Keywords: Endovascular surgery

Background: Endovascular techniques are widespread in the management of civilian trauma and provide standard treatment for select injuries. Despite commonality this less invasive technology, there have been no reports on its use wartime. The objective study was to describe implementation endovascular capability at a level III surgical facility Iraq illustrate effectiveness catheter-based techniques. Methods: From September 1, 2004 through April 30, 2007, injuries Air Force Theater Hospital, Balad, Iraq, were registered database reviewed. Patients whom procedures performed comprise group (N = 139). Results: During period, 150 performed, including placement 39 vena cava filters. 111 nonfilter setting extremity 72), cervical 19), torso 20) Of diagnostic procedures, an abnormal finding present 67 (61%) cases, 47 these underwent either open repair 30) or 17). therapies fell into three categories: embolization 10), covered stent 5), miscellaneous 2). technical success rate treatments 100%, procedure-related complications uncommon 4; 3%). Conclusion: This report is first demonstrate therapeutic acute wartime injury. Implementation has unique requirements related imaging trauma-specific inventory. Once established, however, markedly expands injury armamentarium and, certain provides preferred treatment.