Aetiology
Injury of the femoral artery is usually caused by a blunt force trauma, such as a fall, a motor vehicle accident, or a penetrating wound. It can also be caused by a condition such as an aneurysm, a blockage of the artery, or a clotting disorder.
Diagnosis
Injury of the femoral artery is usually diagnosed with an ultrasound, CT scan, or an angiography. These tests can show any blockage in the artery, any weakened areas, and any signs of clot formation.
Differential diagnosis
Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to injury of the femoral artery are deep vein thrombosis, arterial embolism, and aortic dissection.
Treatment
Treatment for injury of the femoral artery will depend on the severity of the injury. In some cases, the injury can be treated with medications, such as anticoagulants, to reduce clotting, or vasodilators to reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the artery.
Prognosis
The prognosis for injury of the femoral artery depends on the extent of the injury and the treatment given. If the injury is treated early and successfully, the prognosis is usually good. However, if the injury is severe, or if the treatment is unsuccessful, the prognosis may be poor.