What impact does severing the medial and lateral femoral circumflex arteries have on displaced femoral neck fractures?

Severing the medial and lateral femoral circumflex arteries significantly affects the healing process of displaced femoral neck fractures. These arteries are crucial because they provide the primary blood supply to the femoral head. When these blood vessels are compromised, it can lead to reduced blood flow, which may inhibit the healing process of the fracture.

Without adequate blood supply, the risk of complications such as avascular necrosis increases, where the bone tissue dies due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. This condition can severely delay healing or even prevent it altogether, making it a critical factor in the management of femoral neck fractures. Therefore, the severing of these arteries will likely prevent healing rather than promote it or have no impact.

Injuries to the blood supply after such fractures underscore the importance of surgical techniques that aim to preserve these blood vessels to promote optimal healing.