I74: Arterial embolism and thrombosis

I74.2: Embolism and thrombosis of arteries of upper extremities

Arteries are blood vessels that transport blood away from the heart. They supply all the tissue in the body with oxygen-rich blood. A blood clot can cause arteries to narrow or to become completely blocked.

This usually happens due to a blood clot that forms elsewhere in the body. The blood clot may form in the heart, for example. The blood clot is then swept away with the blood and gets stuck in an artery in the shoulder, arm or hand.

However, blood clots can also form in the affected artery itself. In these cases, the artery is often already damaged. For example, if deposits have formed in an artery, it is easier for blood clots to form there.

If arteries in the arm get blocked, it can cause various problems. You may have pain in the shoulder, arm or hand. The affected area may also be cold. If not enough blood reaches the tissue, the tissue can get damaged.