Disarticulation at the ankle using an anterior flap. A preliminary report

Disarticulation has been carried out in ten ankles in nine patients in whom it was not possible to use a heel flap. Four patients were able to walk with a prosthesis which gave satisfactory function. In five who were bedridden, healing was achieved and was of sufficient quality to allow transfers. There was no operative morbidity or mortality. This technique can be used instead of a transtibial amputation if necrosis or ischaemia of the heel is a contraindication to conventional Syme's amputation.