Burgas surgeons save man with severed artery after garden accident

Surgeons at Burgas University Hospital saved the life of an elderly man who was rushed to hospital with a severed artery in his leg and severe blood loss after a gardening accident, Bulgarian National Television (BNT) reported.

The accident happened while the man was working in his garden, when his wife accidentally dropped a sharp tool, causing a deep wound behind his knee. The injury severed a major artery, resulting in rapid blood loss.

A surgical team led by Dr Radoslav Shishkov and Dr Georgi Mirazchiyski operated for several hours overnight, restoring blood flow and saving the patient's leg. He has since been discharged in good condition.

The doctors reminded the public that arterial bleeding is typically bright red and spurts in rhythm with the heartbeat. In such cases, emergency services should be called immediately by dialling 112. Firm pressure should be applied to the wound using a clean cloth. If bleeding cannot be controlled and the injury is to an arm or leg, a tourniquet, such as a belt or elastic strap, should be applied 5–7 cm above the wound, between the injury and the heart. The injured person should be laid down and the affected limb elevated to help reduce blood loss.

Editor: D. Grigorova