Can patterns of segmental injuries of the foot and ankle predict amputation and disability?

The purpose of the study was to determine the risk of digital or distal segmental amputation and permanent unemployment in patients with these injury patterns. A retrospective chart review of 23 patients with multiple, ipsilateral injuries of the foot and ankle was performed. Amputations occurred in five patients (21.7%) and were most common in those with three-level injuries. Odds ratios showed that patients with an amputation were 9.75 times more likely to have a three-level injury than a two-level injury. At a mean follow-up of 12.9 months, 12 patients had not returned to work (60%), seven returned with restrictions, and only one patient returned to preinjury activities. It was concluded that patients with segmental foot and ankle injuries are at risk for amputation of the distal portion of the involved extremity and inability to return to their preinjury employment level (disability).