Vessel lacerations of the fingers are fairly common in incision injuries with sharp blades or open wounds during an armed conflict using a switchblade, razor or a sharp knife. An entire or partial section of an artery causes continuous bleeding.
It is recommended to apply direct pressure on the wound with a clean cloth for 10 to 15 minutes while elevating the affected limb above the level of the heart.
Garottes must not be used during this time as it may cause irreversible injuries. Patients must immediately be referred to a hand surgeon or a vascular surgeon for emergency surgical intervention.