Helical and multislice CTA following penetrating trauma to the subclavian and axillary arteries (pictorial essay)

Penetrating injuries with resultant trauma to the subclavian and axillary arteries have traditionally been evaluated with direct contrast angiography. Physical examination has a low sensitivity for detection of vascular injuries in stable patients and surgical exploration is challenging. With advancements in CT technology, a less invasive and more rapid approach in evaluating arterial injury is now being utilized in many trauma centers. This article will depict the CT angiographic signs of subclavian and axillary artery injuries.