Heel Pad Degloving Injuries: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Care
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Heel pad degloving injuries are uncommon yet severe, with limited evidence on optimal treatment.
• This study examines patients with heel pad degloving injuries alongside ipsilateral lower leg and foot fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the treatment and outcomes of heel pad degloving injuries associated with ipsilateral lower extremity fractures.
• To contribute to the limited data available on managing this rare injury.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients aged 18+ treated for heel pad degloving injuries and ipsilateral foot/ankle fractures.
• Screening of 1,164 patients using ICD-10 codes for open foot/ankle fractures.
• Data collection included demographics, injury patterns, treatments, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Twelve patients met inclusion criteria; six had polytrauma.
• Of 10 patients with follow-up, five developed infections, and two required below-knee amputation.
• Limb salvage patients experienced flap coverage needs, delayed healing, persistent pain, and ambulation difficulties.

Conclusions:

• There is no established consensus for managing heel pad degloving injuries.
• This case series represents the largest to date on the treatment and outcomes of this rare injury.