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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
07:24
Autologous Microfractured and Purified Adipose Tissue for Arthroscopic Management of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Published on: January 23, 2018
Foot and ankle reconstruction after blast injuries
Francis X McGuigan1, Jonathan A Forsberg, Romney C Andersen
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National Naval Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA. fxmcguigan@bethesda.med.navy.mil
Foot and Ankle Clinics
|March 28, 2006
Summary
Reconstructing blast-injured feet and ankles is complex. For many service members, below-knee amputation may offer better function than limb salvage due to severe injuries and advanced prosthetics.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Trauma surgery
- Reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Blast trauma frequently causes severe soft tissue damage and open comminuted fractures in the foot and ankle.
- Limb salvage presents significant challenges due to injury severity and potential functional deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the challenges and outcomes of foot and ankle reconstruction after blast trauma.
- To compare limb salvage versus amputation in the context of blast-injured extremities.
Main Methods:
- Review of multidisciplinary treatment strategies for blast-injured extremities.
- Discussion of the role of external ring fixators in managing complex fractures and soft tissue defects.
Main Results:
- Foot and ankle reconstruction after blast trauma is exceptionally difficult.
- Functional limitations are common even after successful limb salvage.
- Contemporary prosthetics offer superior performance for many patients.
Conclusions:
- Below-knee amputation may be a more beneficial option than limb salvage for many service members with blast-injured lower extremities.
- Limb salvage requires a comprehensive approach addressing infection, soft tissue, and bone defects.
- External fixation devices play a crucial role in the management algorithm for these complex injuries.
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