Name of the Procedure:

Exploration Not Followed by Surgical Repair, Artery; Upper Extremity
(e.g., Axillary, Brachial, Radial, Ulnar Arteries)

Summary

In this procedure, a healthcare provider investigates an artery in the upper extremity (arm) to look for any issues or blockages. However, no surgical repair or intervention is conducted during this exploratory procedure.

Purpose

This procedure aims to diagnose the health of an artery in your arm to check for any issues such as blockages, tears, or other abnormalities. The goal is to determine if further treatment or surgery may be needed in the future.

Indications

• Symptoms: Pain, numbness, or tingling in the arm.
• Conditions: Suspected arterial blockages or injuries, poor blood circulation, or trauma to the arm.
• Criteria: Unexplained symptoms related to blood flow in the arm that haven't been diagnosed through less invasive tests.

Preparation

• Fasting: You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication: Your doctor may adjust or pause certain medications, especially blood thinners.
• Tests: Pre-procedure tests such as blood work or imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI) may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the skin near the artery of interest.
3. Exploration: Medical instruments are carefully used to examine the artery for any signs of damage or blockage.
4. No Repair: No surgical intervention or repair is done during this procedure; it is purely diagnostic.
5. Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures or sterile adhesive strips.

Duration

The procedure generally takes about 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital's operating room or a specialized outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: A vascular or general surgeon conducts the procedure.
• Anesthesiologist: Administers local anesthesia and monitors the patient.
• Nurses: Assist with the procedure and patient care.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection at the incision site, bruising, and minor bleeding.
• Rare Risks: Damage to the artery or surrounding tissues, allergic reaction to anesthesia, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Benefits

• Diagnosis: Provides a clear understanding of any arterial issues.
• Planning: Helps guide further treatment or surgical decisions, potentially preventing unnecessary surgery.

Recovery

• Post-care: Keep the incision area clean and dry. Follow any specific wound care instructions provided by your healthcare team.
• Activity: Limit strenuous activity for a few days.
• Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments to discuss findings and possible next steps.

Alternatives

• Non-invasive Imaging: Ultrasound, CT angiography, or MRI may provide some information but may not be as detailed.
• Pros and Cons: Non-invasive methods are less risky but may not offer as comprehensive a diagnosis. Conversely, direct exploration offers clearer insights but carries procedural risks.

Patient Experience

• During: Mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure but no intense pain due to local anesthesia.
• After: Some soreness or minor pain at the incision site, generally managed with over-the-counter pain relief.