The most common symptom of upper extremity ischemia is Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP). Patients with RP experience episodic digital ischemia occurring in response to external stimuli including cold and occasionally emotional stress. Patients with RP may be subdivided into two distinct pathophysiologic groups, vasospastic and obstructive, based on the absence or presence of arterial occlusive disease. RP should be distinguished from Raynaud’s disease (RD), a primary vasospastic condition without a clear etiology. Other causes of upper extremity ischemia include additional forms of vasospasm induced by agents such as ergotomine, vasopressors, β-blockers, and cocaine (Box 1). A number of other causes of compromised upper extremity arterial circulation, including thoracic outlet syndrome, trauma, and a variety of arteritides, are discussed in detail In other chapters. BOX 1 Causes of Upper Extremity Ischemia
Upper Extremity Revascularization
Upper Extremity Revascularization
