What are vascular injuries?
A person with a vascular injury has a laceration, contusion, puncture, or crush injury to an artery or vein. An injured artery typically results in more blood loss than an injured vein, because the blood pressure in arteries is greater than in veins. In addition, nerves are commonly located near arteries. In general, vascular injuries to arteries are more serious than injuries to veins.

What are the symptoms of vascular injuries?
Symptoms vary with the location of the injury. Symptoms of a vascular injury may include bruising, swelling, pain, and bleeding. Additional symptoms may include numbness or weakness near the injury.

How does the doctor treat vascular injuries?
Initial treatment for vascular injuries may include elevation of the injury above the heart and a pressure dressing. Additional treatment may include wound care, wound repair, and surgery to repair injured arteries.