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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
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Predicting Amputation using Local Circulating Mononuclear Progenitor Cells in Angioplasty-treated Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia
Published on: September 22, 2020
The timing of amputation for lower limb trauma
J L Pozo1, B Powell, B G Andrews
1Queen Mary's University Hospital, Roehampton, London, England.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Severe lower limb trauma often leads to amputation. Early surgical review is recommended to improve prognosis and avoid prolonged treatment for patients with severe injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Trauma Care
- Limb Reconstruction
Background:
- Lower limb amputations frequently result from failed treatments for severe trauma.
- Treatment failures can stem from ischemia, infection, or non-union of fractures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze outcomes of lower limb amputations following treatment failure.
- To identify prognostic indicators for limb salvage in severe trauma.
Main Methods:
- Review of 35 patients undergoing amputation after lower limb trauma.
- Development and application of a novel limb injury score assessing tissue damage.
- Analysis of injury timing, complications, and treatment history.
Main Results:
- Amputations occurred at various intervals post-injury, often after multiple interventions.
- A new limb injury score highlighted poor prognosis associated with severe soft tissue, bone damage, and contamination, even without neurovascular compromise.
- Lower tibia injuries with contamination showed a particularly poor outlook.
Conclusions:
- Early, independent review by orthopaedic and plastic surgeons is crucial for accurate prognosis.
- Timely assessment can prevent extensive surgical treatment, prolonged hospitalization, and patient suffering.
- A new limb injury score aids in predicting limb salvage outcomes.
