Abstract
Aims: Minor foot amputations in diabetic subjects aim at the preservation of limb length and thus in keeping subject‘s ability to ambulate. Various surgical techniques are described and the clinical long-term outcome will be presented.
Methods: Between 1997 and 2004, 157 minor amputations and resections of the foot were performed in patients with diabetic foot syndrome. During follow-up focus was put on wound healing and rehabilitation, ambulation ability and the usage of mobility aids.
Results: In 112 patients 157 minor amputations of the foot have been performed. The mean frequency of reamputations was 52% with higher rate of failure in the forefoot compared with the hindfoot. In case of forefoot amputations orthopaedic shoes were regularly prescribed. In hindfoot amputations in general prostheses were fitted.
Conclusions: Amputations and resections of the foot have a long lasting tradition and deserve particular attention. Despite a relatively high risk of reamputation this intervention appears to be the only way to preserve limb length. As an essential prerequisite for a fortunate result of the treatment excellent quality of orthopaedic shoes and devices is mandatory.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Roger Lemaire. Correspondence should be addressed to EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
