Axillary artery injury with minimally displaced fracture of the neck of the humerus

Abstract

A case of axillary artery injury resulting from a minimally displaced fracture of the neck of the humerus is reported. Very few such injuries have been reported previously. The mechanism of injury can be from sharp bony fragments, overstretching of the artery especially when atheromatous, or torn intima. Angiography should be performed, followed by exploration where indicated.