Among 167 patients, 83.8% achieved full recovery; amputation occurred in 1.2%, mortality in 2.4%, and combined limb loss and death in 2.4%.Adverse outcomes were significantly associated with penetrating polytrauma, proximal lower limb injuries, and fractures (p < 0.001). Take home Message:Penetrating extremity arterial injuries generally have favorable outcomes, but proximal lower limb involvement, polytrauma, and fractures markedly increase the risk of amputation and death, emphasizing the need for rapid risk stratification and intervention. Table of Contents SummaryThis single-center retrospective cohort study of 167 patients with penetrating extremity arterial injuries found that while 83.8% achieved full recovery, adverse outcomes were strongly associated with proximal lower limb injuries, penetrating polytrauma, and fractures.The authors conclude that early identification of high-risk injury patterns and timely multidisciplinary management are essential to reduce amputation and mortality.
Bahramian et al. (2026) studied this question.