Amputations through the hind foot: a report of three cases using a modified Dwyer and Paul procedure

Salvage of limb length following oblique proximal foot amputations is presented. The technique, results, and follow-up of this procedure are described and compared with other standard procedures. A prospective study was done on 3 adolescents who presented consecutively during years 1999 and 2000. The salvage procedure described was performed on all 3 patients, and they were followed up for an average 3.5 years (range 3-4 years). All patients ambulated soon after surgery using crutches. Union of the graft between the distal tibia and calcaneus was achieved at 6 months, and all patients could walk bare foot as well as using their prosthesis both indoors and outdoors. We conclude that salvage of leg length and preservation of the sole of the foot in its normal plantigrade position by this procedure offers a viable and acceptable option to the surgeon and young patients.