From the Research
Cutting off the posterior tibial artery without medical attention would be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening, and immediate emergency medical care is essential. The consequences of such an injury could include:
- Severe blood loss leading to shock and death if the artery is completely severed.
- Lack of blood supply to the lower leg and foot, causing tissue death (necrosis) within hours.
- Permanent nerve and muscle damage in the affected area.
- Potential need for amputation if circulation is not restored quickly.
- Risk of infection if the wound is left untreated. If this occurs, apply firm, direct pressure to the wound immediately to control bleeding. Elevate the leg and call emergency services or get to a hospital as soon as possible. Surgery would likely be needed to repair the artery and restore blood flow, as seen in studies such as 1, which highlights the importance of preserving blood flow in lower extremity reconstruction. The posterior tibial artery is a major blood vessel supplying the lower leg and foot, and its sudden loss severely compromises circulation, leading to rapid tissue damage without swift intervention, as noted in 2. Furthermore, the use of tibiopedal access for lower extremity arterial intervention, as described in 3, underscores the significance of this artery in maintaining blood flow to the lower extremities. Therefore, prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term damage and potential mortality.