A Hybrid Approach to Radiation-Induced Axillary Artery Hemorrhage

Abstract

Axillary artery blowout is a rare life- and limb-threatening condition. The traditional surgical approach of ligation and extra-anatomic bypass is associated with a high morbidity and mortality. We present a case report of a 65-year-old male with axillary artery hemorrhage secondary to an irradiated squamous cell cancer. We propose a staged hybrid approach for the treatment of this unusual clinical entity consisting of emergent stent grafting followed by planned elective extra-anatomic bypass, debridement, and a course of specific antimicrobial therapy.