The Femoral Artery: A Major Concern in Trauma
An injury to the femoral artery represents a severe medical emergency. This large blood vessel, located in the thigh, supplies oxygenated blood to the lower body. Damage to the femoral artery can lead to rapid and substantial blood loss, posing an immediate threat to life.
The Femoral Artery’s Role
The femoral artery is a major blood vessel carrying oxygen-rich blood from the lower abdomen to the lower limbs. It begins in the upper thigh, near the groin, and extends to the back of the knee. Along its path, it branches into smaller vessels, supplying oxygen and nutrients to the leg’s muscles and tissues. Its location, relatively close to the surface in the groin area, makes it susceptible to injury. As a high-pressure vessel, blood flows through it with considerable force, making any injury extremely dangerous due to rapid and significant blood loss.
The Rapid Progression of Blood Loss
Injury to the femoral artery can lead to massive hemorrhage, where a large volume of blood is lost quickly. Due to the artery’s substantial diameter and high pressure, significant bleeding can occur in a matter of seconds. A complete transection of the femoral artery can result in bleeding to death in as little as 3 to 5 minutes if no intervention is made.
This rapid blood loss quickly leads to hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition where the body loses too much blood, making the heart unable to pump enough blood to organs. Symptoms of hypovolemic shock include a rapid heart rate, fast breathing, anxiety, confusion, and cool, clammy skin. Without immediate and effective intervention, organs fail due to inadequate oxygen supply, which can lead to death.
Immediate Life-Saving Interventions
The most effective initial step is to apply firm, direct pressure directly to the wound. This involves placing a clean cloth or sterile dressing over the injury and pressing down with the palm of your hand, using as much force as possible to compress the artery against the underlying bone. Continuous pressure is necessary to stem the flow of blood.
If direct pressure is insufficient or not feasible, a tourniquet can be a life-saving device for limb injuries. A tourniquet should be placed at least 2 to 3 inches above the wound, but not directly over a joint, and tightened until the bleeding stops or is significantly reduced. It is important to note the time the tourniquet was applied. Emergency services should be contacted immediately.
Factors Affecting Survival
Several factors can influence the outcome after a femoral artery injury. The nature of the injury, such as whether it’s a partial tear or a complete transection, directly impacts the rate and volume of blood loss. An individual’s overall health, including their blood clotting ability and existing medical conditions, can also play a role. The most significant determinant of survival is the speed and effectiveness of initial first aid and subsequent professional medical care. Prompt intervention to control bleeding dramatically increases the chances of survival.