Internal pedal amputations

Internal pedal amputation consists of resection of the metatarsals, midtarsal bones, or talus with preservation of the toes and soft-tissue envelope. Although used in the past for the treatment of tuberculosis within the pedal skeleton, internal pedal amputations have become almost forgotten, historical procedures. However, following internal pedal amputations of a diabetic patient, the foot undergoes significant contracture that results in a stable, functional, foreshortened residual foot capable of being protected in custom-molded shoe gear with external or in-shoe orthoses. The author presents the surgical approach and postoperative treatment regime for each form of internal pedal amputation, as well as "pearls" for success.