The Orthobullets Podcast Recon | THA Vascular Injury & Bleeding
Aug 23, 2025
Dive into the complexities of vascular injuries and bleeding risks during total hip arthroplasty. Discover the anatomy and treatment options that are crucial for managing these serious complications. Learn how anterior retractor placement can significantly influence surgical outcomes and blood transfusion needs. Preoperative hemoglobin levels emerge as a vital predictor for post-surgery transfusions. Insights into postoperative anemia and prognosis statistics add depth to this critical surgical topic.
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Rare But High-Stakes Complication
- Vascular injury during THA is rare but can be devastating with major morbidity and mortality risks.
- Prompt recognition, hemostasis, and vascular consultation are critical to patient survival.
Avoid Dangerous Retractor And Screw Placement
- Avoid errant retractor placement and cautious screw placement to reduce vascular injury risk during exposure and acetabular fixation.
- Recognize specific mechanisms like retractor puncture, acetabular screws, and component compression to guide prevention.
Local Vessels Lie Close To Hip Structures
- Key vascular anatomy lies very close to the acetabulum and anterior hip structures, making certain approaches higher risk.
- Know the locations of obturator, circumflex, external iliac, and common femoral vessels relative to retractors and screws.