Peri-cardiac arrest following blunt bicycle handlebar trauma to the iliac vessels: management of a rare case

Abstract

Iliac vessel disruption following blunt trauma is an unusual presentation, particularly in the absence of an orthopaedic injury. We present the unique case of a 14-year-old boy who sustained a blunt bicycle handlebar impalement that resulted in complete transection of the external iliac artery and laceration of the external iliac vein, without a skeletal fracture. The patient deteriorated rapidly, entering hypovolaemic shock and peri-cardiac arrest at anaesthetic induction. Once haemodynamic stability was achieved, the lacerated external iliac vein was used to form an interposition graft to repair the external iliac artery. The rare occurrence and lack of familiarity with this injury, combined with the potential for fatal exsanguination if not swiftly diagnosed makes this case crucial to highlight. Blunt bicycle handlebar injury should carry a high suspicion of severe vascular compromise. If diagnosed this should be rapidly managed with aggressive resuscitation and revascularisation.