Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs Clay Spitler, M.D., and team, were selected for the lead article of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (JAAOS).

Other authors included Orthopaedic Surgery Residents David Patch, M.D., and Walt Smith, M.D., as well as Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy Assistant Professor Graeme McFarland, M.D.

Their research “Assessment and Interventions for Vascular Injuries Associated With Fractures” aimed to evaluate vascular injuries associated with fractures, which can be limb-threatening injuries with notable morbidity. Authors aimed to collaborate across UAB with vascular surgery to further understand the orthopaedic role for care of these patients.

Authors conclude that although the optimal sequence of surgical intervention remains an incompletely answered question, the orthopaedic role in the care of patients with these injuries is to provide mechanical stability to the injured limb to protect the vascular repair and surrounding soft-tissue envelope.

To read the abstract, click here.