Axillary Artery Injury Associated with Dislocated or Displaced Proximal Humeral Fracture: A Report of 3 Cases.

Case: (1) A 69-year-old man sustained a proximal humeral fracture-dislocation. During emergency surgery, copious bleeding occurred. A pseudoaneurysm was identified 30 days postoperatively. (2) A 69-year-old man sustained a proximal humeral fracture and axillary artery injury. Physical examination demonstrated a cold but pink hand. Hemiarthroplasty and bypass vein grafting were performed. (3) An 86-year-old woman sustained a proximal humeral fracture and axillary artery injury. Her hand had turned cold and pale. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty and bypass vein grafting were performed.

Conclusion: In cases of proximal humeral fractures with significant displacement, concomitant axillary artery injury must be assessed and if there is a high index of suspicion, prompt advanced imaging is necessary.