The Use of Temporary Vascular Shunts as a Damage Control Adjunct in the Management of Wartime Vascular Injury

Temporary vascular shunts are common in the management of wartime vascular injury. Shunts in proximal injuries including veins have high patency rates compared with those placed in distal injuries. This vascular adjunct represents a safe and effective damage control technique and is preferable to attempted reconstruction in austere conditions.