Orthoplastic Approach to Lower Extremity Reconstruction: An Update

In order to address complex extremity injuries, the orthoplastic approach uses plastic, orthopedic, and microsurgical techniques and includes other disciplines to optimize limb salvage. This collaboration, if created early in treatment, allows for more expedient and individualized solutions to a variety of extremity injuries resulting in decreased hospital stay, fewer complications, and improved functional outcomes. The orthoplastic approach does not merely avoid amputation, but also improves patient function and quality of life in the short and long term.