Functional Limb Restoration Through Amputation: Minimizing Pain and Optimizing Function With the Use of Advanced...

Area of Science:

• Orthoplastic surgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• Trauma surgery

Background:

• Amputation is increasingly considered for complex extremity trauma.
• Reconstructive techniques used in limb salvage are underutilized in amputation surgery.
• Orthoplastic techniques offer potential for improved amputation outcomes.

Observation:

• A soldier with a proximal tibial defect elected amputation after failed limb salvage.
• The patient had tibial allodynia and limited ankle function.
• Orthoplastic techniques were applied during transtibial amputation.

Findings:

• A free fasciocutaneous flap provided soft tissue coverage.
• A pedicled vascularized fibula addressed the tibial defect.
• Myoneural interface and nerve constructs improved function and reduced pain.

Implications:

• Orthoplastic amputation surgery can optimize pain and function.
• This approach maximizes the rehabilitative potential for amputees.
• Advanced techniques enable amputation as a restorative procedure.