Free-flap salvage of a traumatic below-knee amputation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Traumatic below-knee amputations often involve extensive soft-tissue loss and exposed bone.
• Achieving stable coverage in such complex injuries presents a significant reconstructive challenge.
• Preserving limb function and preventing further complications are critical goals in amputation management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of microsurgical free-tissue transfer for salvaging traumatic below-knee amputations with extensive soft-tissue defects.
• To assess the long-term stability of soft-tissue coverage and preservation of knee function following this reconstructive approach.

Main Methods:

• A case report detailing the salvage of a traumatic below-knee amputation.
• Utilized microsurgical free-tissue transfer to provide coverage for the exposed tibial bone and surrounding soft tissues.
• Monitored the patient for over one year, assessing flap viability, wound healing, and functional outcomes.

Main Results:

• Successful soft-tissue coverage was achieved using a free flap.
• The reconstructed area remained stable with no signs of flap compromise or infection at the one-year follow-up.
• The patient maintained good knee function, indicating successful limb salvage.

Conclusions:

• Microsurgical free-tissue transfer is a viable and effective method for salvaging traumatic below-knee amputations with extensive soft-tissue loss and bone exposure.
• This technique allows for stable coverage and can lead to successful preservation of limb function.
• Further studies could explore patient-reported outcomes and long-term functional recovery in larger cohorts.