Amputation of the forefoot. Predictive value of signs and clinical physiological tests

Fifty-two transmetatarsal and 11 transtarsal forefoot amputations were reviewed. Primary healing was obtained in 1/4 of the amputations. No difference could be detected between diabetic and non-diabetic gangrene regarding wound healing. The local blood pressure at the ankle had a useful predictive value, whereas the blood pressure at the toe level was of no value. Skin perfusion pressure was impossible to measure in several cases and was thus of less value, as was the clinical judgement.