Injury to a blood vessel categorised by type of trauma

• A blunt injury can occur when a blood vessel is crushed or stretched.
• A penetrating injury can occur when a blood vessel is punctured, torn or severed.
• Either type of vascular trauma can cause the blood vessel to clot (thrombosis) and interrupt blood flow to an organ or extremity, or cause bleeding which can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage.

Associated with

• dislocated joints
• fractures
• wound

Aetiology

• Home accidents
• Bicycle and motorized vehicle accidents while driving or riding
• Job-related accidents
• Athletic injuries
• Falls
• Domestic violence
• Combat injuries
• Violent crime