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DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726394
Free Tissue Transfer after Open Transmetatarsal Amputation in Diabetic Patients
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Abstract
Background Transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) preserves functional gait while avoiding the need for prosthesis. However, when primary closure is not possible after amputation, higher level amputation is recommended. We hypothesize that reconstruction of the amputation stump using free tissue transfer when closure is not possible can achieve similar benefits as primarily closed TMAs.
Methods Twenty-eight TMAs with free flap reconstruction were retrospectively reviewed in 27 diabetic patients with a median age of 61.5 years from 2004 to 2018. The primary outcome was limb salvage rate, with additional evaluation of flap survival, ambulatory status, time until ambulation, and further amputation rate. In addition, subgroup analysis was performed based on the microanastomosis type.
Results Flap survival was 93% (26 of 28 flaps) and limb salvage rate of 93% (25 of 27 limbs) was achieved. One patient underwent a second free flap reconstruction. In the two failed cases, higher level amputation was required. Thirteen flaps had partial loss or other complications which were salvaged with secondary intension or skin grafts. Median time until ambulation was 14 days following reconstruction (range: 9–20 days). Patients were followed-up for a median of 344 days (range: 142–594 days). Also, 88% of patients reported good ambulatory function, with a median ambulation score of 4 out of 5 at follow-up. There was no significant difference between the subgroups based on the microanastomosis type.
Conclusion TMA with free flap reconstruction is an effective method for diabetic limb salvage, yielding good functional outcomes and healing results.
Note
This study was presented at Abu Dhabi 10th Annual Wound Care Conference, Oral abstract presentation, March 23–24, 2019, Abu Dhabi, UAE; National Undergraduate Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Conference, Glasgow University, Poster Presentation, April 13, 2019, Glasgow, Scotland; and European Wound Management Association (EWMA) 2019 Conference, E-Poster with Short Oral Presentation, June 5–7, 2019, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Publikationsverlauf
Eingereicht: 13. August 2020
Angenommen: 27. Januar 2021
Artikel online veröffentlicht:
31. März 2021
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