Axillary artery rupture complicating anterior dislocation of the shoulder. Case report.

Vascular injury is a rare complication of anterior dislocation of the shoulder joint. Two cases, both in elderly persons (65 and 74 years) were treated in our Department during a 5-year period. Atherosclerotic changes of the axillary artery and previous shoulder dislocation are predisposing factors for such injury.