Forequarter Amputation and Resection of Ribs 1-4 for Chronic Osteomyelitis

A 78-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer, melanoma, and radiation therapy presented with worsening chronic osteomyelitis and radiation necrosis of her clavicle, scapula, and upper ribs. Despite treatment with vancomycin, she experienced significant lymphedema and near-total loss of motor function in the left upper extremity. Given the progression of the disease and diminished functionality of the limb, a forequarter amputation was determined to be the only viable option beyond supportive care. The forequarter amputation was successful, and it involved the removal of the left clavicle, scapula, ribs 1-4, and the upper extremity. Within a month, the patient regained independence in all activities of daily living, highlighting the potential for improved quality of life from surgical interventions under certain circumstances. Our case serves as a reminder that the utility of the forequarter amputation extends beyond its most common uses, such as trauma or sarcoma, and in rare cases can be an option for refractory osteomyelitis of the proximal upper extremity and chest wall.