Transmetatarsal and midfoot amputations

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Podiatric surgery
• Reconstructive surgery

Background:

• Lower extremity amputation aims to restore patient mobility and independence.
• Forefoot loss due to trauma, infection, or gangrene necessitates limb salvage strategies.
• Preserving hindfoot function is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the viability of transmetatarsal, Lisfranc, and Chopart's joint level amputations.
• To assess the potential for preserving hindfoot structures in lower extremity amputations.
• To review improvements in patient selection and surgical techniques for these amputation levels.

Main Methods:

• Review of surgical techniques for lower extremity amputation.
• Analysis of complication rates associated with different amputation levels.
• Evaluation of patient selection criteria for limb salvage procedures.

Main Results:

• Transmetatarsal amputation is a common level for forefoot loss.
• Historically, Lisfranc and Chopart's joint amputations had high complication rates.
• Improved patient selection and surgical techniques make these levels viable for hindfoot salvage.

Conclusions:

• Careful patient selection and refined surgical techniques enhance the success of Lisfranc and Chopart's joint amputations.
• Preserving hindfoot structures is achievable and beneficial for patient mobility.
• These amputation levels offer viable options for limb salvage when forefoot tissue is compromised.