Intravascular shunts in complex lower limb trauma.

Vascular injuries of the lower limb in the presence of extensive soft tissue loss, fractures, or other life-threatening injuries are associated with a high amputation rate. Five patients underwent temporary intravascular shunting during the period of treatment of such injuries. Rapid reperfusion of the limb via such shunts permitted more comprehensive evaluation and management of the lower limb and other associated injuries than would have been possible in the presence of prolonged ischemia.