Epidemiologic data of trauma-related lower limb amputees: A single center 10-year experience

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is three fold: 1) to introduce epidemiologic data of patients with trauma-related amputations as a 10-year experience of a rehabitation center; 2) to determine comorbidities and secondary conditions of lower limb loss; 3) to determine the rehospitalization reasons for lower limb amputee patients.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary rehabilitation center in Turkey. Clinical and demographic data of amputees including sex, age, employment status, time since amputation, time after amputation to first hospitalization, length of hospitalization, how many times the patient was hospitalized, reason for hospitalization, stump complications, comorbid conditions, amputation level and K classifacation were documented.ResultsThree hundred ninetynine patients with a mean age of 23,48 ± 6,04 (4–74) years were included in this study. Mean duration after amputation was 119,71 ± 68,86 months. Patients were 3,43 ± 2,53 times hospitalized. Landmine explosion was the most common etiology of amputation with 370 patients (92.7%). Below knee amputation was the most common amputation level with 230 (50,77%) amputations. 399 patients were hospitalized 1369 times and the most common hospitalization reason were stump complications (356 times, 26,00%). Spur formation (202 times) was the most common stump complications. Pyscologic disorders were the most common comorbidity with 68 patient (37,56%).ConclusionPatients with traumatic limb amputations are likely to experience several complications and comorbidities. Prevention of secondary conditions affecting those living with the loss of a limb is an important part of amputee rehabilitation and may prevent rehospitalization.     

The Influence of Socio-economic Deprivation on Rates of Major Lower Limb Amputation Secondary to Peripheral Arterial Disease

ObjectivesTo investigate a hypothesised link between socio-economic deprivation and rates of major lower limb amputation within the catchment of a district general hospital in the United Kingdom.DesignAn analysis of a demographic database collated using patients identified by the OPCS codes for lower limb amputations.MaterialsAll patients undergoing a lower limb amputation as a result of peripheral vascular disease, as identified by ICD-10 code, between January 2003 and January 2009 were included in the study.MethodsA case–control study was undertaken, comparing the Index of Multiple Deprivation 2007 (IMD) scores of major lower limb amputees, to those of the catchment population. Multivariate analysis was not undertaken.ResultsA total of 327 patients underwent 445 lower limb amputations during the 6-year period. A comparative plot of cumulative frequency of IMD score in the catchment and amputation groups indicates greater numbers of major amputations in more deprived postcodes (P = 0.004). The catchment population was further divided into population-matched deprivation quintiles. A significant increase in the number of amputations occurred in the two most deprived quintiles (OR (95%CI) = 1.654 (1.121–2.440), P = 0.011)ConclusionsThis study indicates a positive association between increasing social deprivation and rates of lower limb amputation. If the most deprived quintiles are combined, this increase in amputation rates is approximately 65%. This inequity should be further investigated, and consideration given to targeted care within areas of greater social deprivation.     

Complications and revision amputation following trauma-related lower limb loss

IntroductionTrauma-related amputations are a common cause of limb loss in the United States. Despite the military and public health impact of trauma-related amputations, distributions of various lower limb amputations and the relative frequency of complications and revision amputations have not been well described. We used the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) in order to investigate the epidemiology of trauma-related lower extremity amputations among civilians in U.S. trauma centers.Materials and methodsWe conducted a secondary data analysis of the 2011–2012 NTDB research data sets, using means and frequencies to characterize the patient population and describe the distribution of major lower extremity amputations. Multivariable regression models were fit to identify predictors of major post-surgical complications, revision amputation, length of hospitalization, and in-hospital mortality.ResultsA total of 2879 patients underwent a major lower extremity amputation secondary to a trauma-related lower limb injury, representing 0.18% of all NTDB trauma admissions from 2011 to 2012. 80.4% were male and 67.6% were white. The three most frequent definitive amputations preformed included trans-tibial (46%), trans-femoral (37.5%), and through foot (7.6%). The average length of hospitalization for all amputees was 22.7 days. Patients with at least one revision amputation stayed in the hospital approximately 5.5 days longer than patients not needing a revision amputation. 1204 patients (41.8%) required at least one revision amputation. 27.5% of amputees experienced at least one major post-surgical complication. African Americans experienced a 49% higher major post-surgical complication incidence and stayed, on average, 2.5 days longer in the hospital compared to whites. Injury severity score, age, hospital teaching status, presence of a crush injury, fracture location, presence of compartment syndrome, and experiencing a major post-surgical complication were all significant predictors of revision amputation.ConclusionWe report a high rate of complications and revision amputations among trauma-related lower limb amputees, and identify predictors of surgical outcomes that have not been described in the literature including African American race. Compartment syndrome is a significant predictor of major post-surgical complications, revision amputation, and length of hospitalization.     

Outcomes in lower limb amputation following trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionLower limb amputation (LLA) is life-changing surgery. Shorter residual limbs are known to place greater physiological strain on patients than longer residual limbs; however, there is ongoing debate as to whether through-knee amputations are preferable to above-knee amputations. This analysis aims to resolve this question by systematically collecting and pooling published and unpublished data on this subject.MethodsAn exhaustive search of Medline, Embase and Recal databases was made for outcome studies of patients with lower limb amputations following trauma. Studies concerned with amputations of the upper limb or foot and ankle were excluded as were papers reporting outcomes in a population of mixed trauma and non-trauma patients. Authors of studies published in the last 10 years were contacted for unpublished details. Patients were then divided, according to amputation height, into four groups: below-knee amputation (BKA), through-knee amputation (TKA), above-knee amputation (AKA) and bilateral amputation. The primary outcome measure was Physical Component Score (PCS) of the short-form-36 measure of quality of life and secondary outcomes were pain, employment, ability to walk 500 m and proportion of time that prosthesis is worn.ResultsAs many as 27 studies were included, representing a total of 3105 patients, 1855 with a BKA, 104 with a TKA, 888 with an AKA and 258 bilateral amputees. There was progressive and significant lowering of PCS (worsening outcomes) as unilateral amputation height became more proximal from BKA to TKA and AKA. A significantly greater proportion of patients with a BKA or a TKA were able to walk 500 m than those with an AKA or bilateral amputation (p = 0.0035). However, patients with a TKA wore their prosthesis significantly less, and had significantly more pain than those with an AKA.ConclusionThis study describes the impact of LLA of different levels on patients’ lives. The results indicate that patients with a TKA have a better physical quality of life than those with an AKA and, therefore, support the surgical strategy of maintaining maximum length and performing TKA in preference to AKA, where possible.     

The indications for major limb amputations: 8 years retrospective study in a private orthopaedic and trauma centre in the south-east Nigeria

BackgroundMajor limb amputation is a common orthopaedic trauma procedure and it is indicated mainly for traumatic gangrene and for trauma related limb conditions. The loss of a limb is devastating to the patient even when it is done to save life. The aims of the study are to highlight the indications for major limb amputations and to find out if there are any concurrent pattern changes.Patients and methodsThis is a retrospective study analysing medical records of all the patients, who had major limb amputations over a period of 8 years, between October 2007 and September 2015 in a private orthopaedic and trauma centre in the south-east sub-region of Nigeria.ResultsTraumatic gangrene was the commonest indication for amputation n = 30 (44.7%), followed by diabetic gangrene n = 15 (22.3%), and then traditional bone setters’ gangrene n = 10 (14.9%). These were trailed by mangled extremity, malignant conditions of the limb and polydactyl in that order of decreasing frequency.ConclusionTraumatic gangrene and other trauma related limb conditions are the leading indications for amputation in this study despite some recent reports stating otherwise. Trauma is largely preventable and so there is a need for continued intensification of the public campaign on road use as a means of preventing severe limb injuries and thus reducing consequent need for amputations.     

Patients with multiple traumatic amputations: An analysis of operation enduring freedom joint theatre trauma registry data

IntroductionImprovised Explosive Devices (IED) are the primary wounding mechanism for casualties in Operation Enduring Freedom. Patients can sustain devastating traumatic amputations, which are unlike injuries seen in the civilian trauma sector. This is a database analysis of the largest patient registry of multiple traumatic amputations.MethodsThe Joint Theater Trauma Registry was queried for patients with a traumatic amputation from 2009 to 2012. Data obtained included the Injury Severity Score (ISS), Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), blood products, transfer from theatre, and complications including DVT, PE, infection (Acinetobacter and fungal), acute renal failure, and rhabdomyolysis. Comparisons were made between number of major amputations (1–4) and specific outcomes using χ² and Pearson’s rank test, and multivariable logistic regression was performed for 30-day survival. Significance was considered with p < 0.05.ResultsWe identified 720 military personnel with at least one traumatic amputation: 494 single, 191 double, 32 triple, and 3 quad amputees. Average age was 24.3 years (18–46), median ISS 24 (9–66), and GCS 15 (3–15). Tranexamic acid (TXA) was administered in 164 patients (23%) and tourniquets were used in 575 (80%). Both TXA and tourniquet use increased with increasing number of amputations (p < 0.001). Average transfusion requirements (in units) were packed red blood cells (PRBC) 18.6 (0–142), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) 17.3 (0–128), platelets 3.6 (0–26), and cryoprecipitate 5.6 (0–130). Transfusion of all blood products increased with the number of amputations (p < 0.001). All complications tested increased with the number of amputations except Acinetobacter infection, coagulopathy, and compartment syndrome. Transfer to higher acuity facilities was achieved in 676 patients (94%).ConclusionTraumatic amputations from blast injuries require significant blood product transfusion, which increases with the number of amputations. Most complications also increase with the number of amputations. Despite high injury severity, 94% of traumatic amputation patients who are alive upon admission to a role II/III facility will survive to transfer to facilities with higher acuity care.     

Trauma-related amputations in war and at a civilian major trauma centre—comparison of care,outcome and the challenges ahead

The Afghanistan conflict has resulted in a large number of service personnel sustaining amputations. Whilst obvious differences exist between military and civilian trauma-related amputations both settings result in life changing injuries. Comparisons offer the potential of advancement and protection of the knowledge gained during the last 12 years.This paper compares the military and civilian trauma-related amputee cohorts’ demographics, management and rehabilitation outcomes measures.The UK military Joint Theatre Trauma Registry and a civilian major trauma centre database of trauma-related amputees were analysed.255 military and 24 civilian amputees were identified. A significant difference (p > 0.05) was seen in median age (24, range 18–43, vs. 48, range 24–87 years), mean number of amputations per casualty (1.6 ± SD 0.678 vs. 1 ± SD 0.0), mean ISS (22 ± SD 12.8 vs. 14.7 ± SD 15.7) and gender (99% males vs. 78%). Rehabilitation outcome measures recorded included the Special Interest Group in Amputee Medicine score where the military group demonstrated significantly better scores (91% Grade E+ compared to 19%).Differences in patients underlying physiology and psychology, the military trauma system and a huge sustained investment in rehabilitation are all contributing factors for these differing outcomes. However the authors also believe that the use of a consultant-led MDT and central rehabilitation have benefited the military cohort in the acute rehabilitation stage and is reflected in the good short-term outcomes.     

Use of giant-sized flow-through venous flap for simultaneous reconstruction of dual or multiple major arteries in salvage therapy for complex upper limb traumatic injury

Background/ObjectivesSalvage repair after complex upper limb traumatic injury is surgically challenging due to underlying major arterial impairment with complicating a large-sized soft tissue defect. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of using a giant-sized (≥100 cm²) flow-through venous flap for reconstruction of dual or multiple forearm, metacarpal, or digital arteries after complex upper limb traumatic injury.MethodsSeven patients were consecutively hospitalized for emergency salvage repair after complex upper limb traumatic injury between March 2012 and May 2014. The forearm and palmar artery defects were repaired using the calf great saphenous vein flap and the volar forearm venous flap, respectively.ResultsThe flow-through venous flap ranged from 9.5 cm × 12.0 cm to 12.0 cm × 20.0 cm (mean, 158.4 cm²) in size. The flaps and affected limbs survived uneventfully in five patients, with one patient experiencing distal flap marginal necrosis and a second patient requiring amputation of the affected limb. Computed tomography angiography showed patent vessels in all patients. The mean total active motion of the repaired fingers was 199.5° versus 258.8° for the contralateral counterpart (77.1%). The sensory return was determined to be S2 in 2 patients, S3 in 3 patients and S3+ in 1 patient. The disability scores for the arm, shoulder, and hand ranged from 4.6–18.2 (mean, 11.3), and the mean Michigan hand outcomes questionnaire score was 7.8 ± 0.9.ConclusionsThe flow-through venous flap is an effective and safe treatment alternative for salvage therapy of a ≥100-cm² complex upper limb traumatic injury with dual or multiple major arterial impairment. This technique allows simultaneous reconstruction of dual or multiple artery injuries and an extensive soft tissue defect. Serious surgical site infection remains a major safety concern and necessitates radical debridement in complicating cases.     

Outcomes of partial and total calcanectomies for the treatment of diabetic heel ulcers complicated with osteomyelitis. A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundInfected diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) complicated with calcaneal osteomyelitis are a real challenge for limb preservation. Very few alternatives to amputation are available, mainly the resection of a part or the totality of the calcaneal bone. Calcanectomies were advanced as limb-sparing procedures in patients with heel osteomyelitis. However, there is a lack of pooled quantitative evidence on their efficacy and complications.ObjectivesThe present systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the primary outcome of healing rates following partial (PC) and total calcanectomies (TC) in treating calcaneal osteomyelitis due to diabetic heel ulcers. Additionally, secondary outcomes such as secondary TC following PC, secondary below knee amputation (BKA), mortality and the change in the ambulation status were analyzed.MethodsMedline, Scopus, Web of science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched since inception. All types of study design were included. Single case report studies and studies reporting osteomyelitis due to other etiologies than DFU were excluded.ResultsTwenty studies met the inclusion criteria comprising 295 patients with 300 calcanectomies (270 PC and 30 TC). With a mean follow-up period of 29.3 ± 17.7 months, the weighted results were as follows: a) the osteomyelitis healing rate was of 80% (95% CI = 0.728 to 0.861, I² = 48.3%), b) the rate of secondary total calcanectomy was of 5.4% (95% CI = 0.022 to 0.097, I² = 7.5%), c) the rate of secondary BKA was of 17.1% (95% CI = 0.111 to 0.241, I² = 50.6%) with no difference between subgroups of TC and PC, and d) the combined mortality rate of both calcanectomies was of 13.4% (95% CI = 0.064 to 0.224, I² = 73.6%); however, significant higher mortality was found following TC compared to PC (p < 0.0001).ConclusionPartial and total calcanectomies were found to yield very good healing rates with acceptable complication frequencies. When compared to the reported outcomes of below and above-knee amputations in the literature, calcanectomies could be fairly considered as good alternatives to above ankle amputations.     

Long-term Outcomes after Angioplasty of Isolated,Below-the-knee Arteries in Diabetic Patients with Critical Limb Ischaemia

BackgroundIt has been shown that concomitant percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of above-the-knee (ATK) and below-the-knee (BTK) arteries is highly beneficial for limb salvage in patients with critical limb ischaemia (CLI), but few published studies have specifically investigated outcomes in diabetic patients with CLI associated with isolated small BTK-vessel disease. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term results of successful PTA for limb salvage in such patients.Materials and methodsFrom among the 634 patients with CLI in our database, we retrospectively selected a consecutive series of 101 diabetics (16%) with 107 critically ischaemic limbs (33 Rutherford 5 and 74 Rutherford 6) and no critical ATK lesion, who underwent PTA on isolated BTK lesions.ResultsThe limb salvage rate was 93% after a mean follow-up of 1048 ± 525 days (2.9 ± 1.4 years). Transcutaneous oxygen tension significantly increased after 1 month (18.1 ± 11.2 vs. 39.6 ± 15.1; p < 0.05). After 1 year, target-vessel re-stenosis had occurred in 42% of the non-amputated limbs, nine patients (9%) had died because of medical conditions unrelated to PTA and three patients had undergone repeat PTA for recurrent CLI.ConclusionsIn our selected patient population with ischaemic diabetic foot and isolated BTK lesions, a successful endovascular procedure led to a high percentage of limb salvage at long-term follow-up.     

Single centre experience of combat-related vascular injury in victims of Syrian conflict: Retrospective evaluation of risk factors associated with amputation

ObjectiveTo elucidate the risk factors associated with amputation in cases with combat-related vascular injury (CRVI).Material and methodsThis retrospective study included 90 cases with CRVI treated between May 2011 and July 2013. The patients were divided into group I (n = 69), in which the limb was salvaged and group II (n = 21), in which the patients received amputation.ResultsThe overall and the secondary amputation rates were 23% and 18%, respectively. There were no amputations with the MESS of nine or less, increasing proportions of amputations at 10 and 11, with a level of 12 leading to 100% amputation rate. The mortality rate was 2%. Among the 52 (58%) cases with the mangled extremity severity score (MESS) ≥ 7, the limb salvage rate was 60%. The patients in group II were more likely to have a combined artery and vein injury (p = 0.042). They were also more likely to be injured as a result of an explosion (p = 0.004). Along with the MESS (p < 0.001), the duration of ischemia (DoI) (p < 0.001) were higher in group II. The rate of bony fracture (p < 0.001) and wound infection (p = 0.011) were higher in group II. For the overall amputation, the odds ratio of the bony fracture (OR: 61.39, p = 0.011), nerve injury (OR: 136.23, p = 0.004), DoI (OR: 2.03, p = 0.003), vascular ligation (OR: 8.65, p = 0.040) and explosive device injury (OR: 10.8, p = 0.041) were significant. Although the DoI (p < 0.001) and the MESS (p = 0.004) were higher in whom a temporary vascular shunt (TVS) was applied, the utilisation of a TVS did not influence the amputation rate (p = 1.0).ConclusionsThe DoI and the variables indicating the extent of tissue disruption were the major determinants of amputation. While statistically non-significant, the benefit of the application of a TVS is non-negligible. MESS is a valid scoring system but should not be the sole foundation for deciding on amputation. Extremities which were doomed to amputation with the MESS >7 seem to benefit from revascularisation with initiation of reperfusion at once. The validity of MESS merits further investigation with regard to the determination of a new cut-off value under ever developing medical management strategies.     

Comparison of patient-reported outcomes after traumatic upper extremity amputation: Replantation versus prosthetic rehabilitation

BackgroundAfter major upper extremity traumatic amputation, replantation is attempted based upon the assumption that outcomes for a replanted limb exceed those for revision amputation with prosthetic rehabilitation. While some reports have examined functional differences between these patients, it is increasingly apparent that patient perceptions are also critical determinants of success. Currently, little patient-reported outcomes data exists to support surgical decision-making in the setting of major upper extremity traumatic amputation. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to directly compare patient-reported outcomes after replantation versus prosthetic rehabilitation.MethodsAt three tertiary care centers, patients with a history of traumatic unilateral upper extremity amputation at or between the radiocarpal and elbow joints were identified. Patients who underwent either successful replantation or revision amputation with prosthetic rehabilitation were contacted. Patient-reported health status was evaluated with both DASH and MHQ instruments. Intergroup comparisons were performed for aggregate DASH score, aggregate MHQ score on the injured side, and each MHQ domain.ResultsNine patients with successful replantation and 22 amputees who underwent prosthetic rehabilitation were enrolled. Aggregate MHQ score for the affected extremity was significantly higher for the Replantation group compared to the Prosthetic Rehabilitation group (47.2 vs. 35.1, p < 0.05). Among the MHQ domains, significant advantages to replantation were demonstrated with respect to overall function (41.1 vs. 19.7, p = 0.03), ADLs (28.3 vs. 6.0, p = 0.03), and patient satisfaction (46.0 vs. 24.4, p = 0.03). Additionally, Replantation patients had a lower mean DASH score (24.6 vs. 39.8, p = 0.08).ConclusionsPatients in this study who experienced major upper extremity traumatic amputation reported more favorable patient-reported outcomes after successful replantation compared to revision amputation with prosthetic rehabilitation.     

The “Road to Union” protocol for the reconstruction of isolated complex high-energy tibial trauma

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to describe a standardized staged approach, “The Road to Union”, for the reconstruction of isolated complex tibial trauma, both acute and chronic in nature.MethodsThis retrospective study included all patients treated for complex tibial trauma at a specialized limb reconstruction centre, including acute open fracture as well as infected and aseptic non-unions. This standardized approach includes eight specific steps, employed in sequence. The time in external fixation (EFT), the external fixation index (EFI), and the distraction consolidation index (DCI) were the primary outcome measures. The relationship between EFI and DCI was assessed using Pearson’s moment correlations.ResultsThirty-two patients with a mean age of 34.7 ± 14.2 years were included; 12 were treated for complex open tibial fractures with bone loss, 13 for infected non-unions, and 6 for aseptic non-union. The mean bone defect was 66 ± 32 mm. The total EFT was 42.5 ± 14.8 weeks; the EFI measured 51.9 ± 25.3 days/cm, and the DCI measured 48.3 ± 21.4 days/cm. Union was achieved in 29 out of 32 patients (91%), and there was a strong and significant relationship between EFI and DCI (r = 0.92, p = 0.0001) measurements. Pin site infections were observed in 11 patients, and 3 patients had persistent non-union. Three patients underwent delayed amputations when reconstructive procedures were unable to achieve union.ConclusionThe findings of this study demonstrate that a standardized staged treatment protocol of debridement, circular external fixation, soft-tissue management, distraction osteogenesis, and functional rehabilitation can result in a high rate of union in cases of complex tibial trauma, both acute and chronic in nature.Level of evidenceLevel IV; case series     

Calcanectomy: Avoiding major amputation in the presence of calcaneal osteomyelitis—A case series

BackgroundCalcaneal osteomyelitis is a surgical diagnosis that may be treated by local, resection or major amputation.ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of calcanectomy for treating calcaneal osteomyelitis.MethodWe conducted a retrospective review of patients receiving calcanectomy between 1st April 2005 and 1st October 2011 for calcaneal osteomyelitis. We reviewed these cases to determine healing, rate, microbiological analysis, length of stay, limb salvage rate and survival rate.ResultsThere were 10 patients included in this review. There were 7 with diabetes and 3 without.Mean age of group with diabetes was 64 years, of this group 5/7 healed at a mean of 64 days. Mean length of stay for this group was 49.3 ± 39.4 days. 2 patients required a transtibial amputation. Mean age of group without diabetes was 77 years, healing at a mean of 19 days. Mean length of stay for this group was 14 ± 16.8 days and all survived over 3 years. Microbiological analysis of suspected osteomyelitic bone typically isolated >4 organisms.ConclusionsCalcanectomy is a useful procedure for limb salvage. It may reduce morbidity rates for people with calcaneal osteomyelitis, those with diabetes can expect prolonged wound healing and longer length of stay.     

Macro-amputation du membre supérieur : que sont devenus les patients ? À propos de 22 cas

In front of a major upper limb trauma, do we need to make everything possible to keep the limb with the risk of facing poor functional outcomes? This study was performed to evaluate and compare long-term functional, psychological and social outcomes following major upper extremity trauma between patients treated with amputation and those who underwent limb salvage. This was a retrospective monocenter cohort study of 22 patients who sustained an upper limb injury requiring either amputation or limb salvage. The characteristics of the patient, trauma and initial take-care were studied. The outcomes of amputation and upper limb salvage were compared by using functional scores (DASH, Chen), autonomy (activities of the everyday life, work, driving, leisure activities), psychological and quality of life evaluation (NHP, EVA, Russel's score). Twenty-two patients were supported. Eleven limb salvages were performed with six secondary amputations. Sixteen patients were reviewed: five with limb salvage and 11 amputees with a mean follow-up of 12 years and 5 months. All patients were autonomous. There were no significant differences between both groups regarding DASH and NHP scores or to work status and driving ability. Russel's score showed that patients with salvaged upper limb were pleased to have kept it and would recommend this treatment. Although the results of upper limb macro-replantation are sometimes disappointing, the satisfaction for these patients to keep their upper limb and their body integrity seems to justify such upper limb salvage when it is technically possible.     

Predictors of amputation in high-energy forefoot and midfoot injuries

IntroductionHigh energy injuries to the midfoot and forefoot are highly morbid injury groups that are relatively unstudied in the literature. Patients sustaining injuries of this region are challenging to counsel at the time of injury because so little is known about the short and long term results of these injuries. The purpose of this study was to investigate injury specific factors that were predictive of amputation in patients sustaining high energy midfoot and forefoot injuries.Patients and methods137 patients with 146 injured feet [minimum of two fractures located in the forefoot and midfoot, excluding phalanges, talus, calcaneus, with a high energy mechanism].Results121 of 146 feet (83%) were treated operatively; 27 patients sustained 34 total surgical amputation events. 30-day amputation rate was 13.9% and 1-year amputation rate was 18.9%; 27 of 146 feet ultimately sustained amputation with 23 of 27 sustaining a below the knee amputation (BKA) and 17 of 23 (73.9%) received a BKA as their first amputation. Statistically significant predictors of amputation included the number of bones fractured in the foot (p = 0.015), open injury to the plantar or dorsal surfaces of the foot, Gustilo grade, vascular injury, and complete loss of sensation to any surface of the foot (all p < 0.001). Specific fracture patterns predictive of any amputation were fracture of all five metatarsals (p < 0.001) and fracture of the first metatarsal (p = 0.003). Presence of a dislocation or fracture of the distal tibia were not predictive of amputation. Midterm patient-reported-outcomes (N = 51) demonstrated no difference in physical function for patients with and without amputations.ConclusionsHigh-energy forefoot and midfoot injuries are associated with a high degree of morbidity; 1/5th of patients sustaining these injuries proceeded to amputation within 1 year. Injury characteristics can be used to counsel patients regarding severity and amputation risk.     

Reconstruction of two fingertip amputations using a double thenar flap and comparison of outcomes of surgery using a single thenar flap

BackgroundAlthough thenar flap for single fingertip amputation is a common and popular surgical technique, double thenar flap technique for patients with two fingertip amputations has rarely been reported in the literature. The purpose of this case-control study was to introduce the double thenar technique and compare the clinical outcomes between single thenar flap and double thenar flap surgical treatments.MethodsFrom January 2005 to December 2014, 92 patients with single fingertip amputations were treated with thenar flap (Group I) and 28 patients with two fingertip amputations were treated with double thenar flap (Group II). These 120 patients were followed-up for a minimum of 12 months postoperatively. At the latest follow-up, the two groups were assessed for pain, cold intolerance in the reconstructed finger, functional outcomes by Chen’s criteria, and subjective patient satisfaction.ResultsAt the final follow-up, all flaps in both groups had survived. No flap failure occurred. There was no significant difference in cold intolerance (p = 0.783), donor site pain (p = 0.728), fingertip pain (p = 1.000), or paresthesia (p = 0.514) between the two groups. A total of 100 (83.3%) patients were completely or fairly satisfied. There was no significant difference in satisfaction between the two groups (p = 0.801). According to the Chen criteria, 102 (85%) patients had excellent or good results.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that the double thenar flap technique used for patients with two fingertip amputations produced complete survival with functional outcomes comparable to those of the single thenar flap technique at the last follow-up.     

Prática de atividade física entre pacientes da Coorte Brasília de artrite reumatoide inicial

IntroductionThe 2012 Consensus of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (SBR) for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) recommends that patients should regularly perform physical exercises. There have been no studies in Brazil on physical activity among patients with early RA.ObjectiveTo investigate the physical activity practice among patients with early RA and the possible association between physical activity, disease activity and functional disability.MethodsCross-sectional study of patients from the Brasilia cohort of early RA. Demographic data (sex, age and level of schooling), physical activity practice, Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS 28), functional disability (Health Assessment Questionnaire - HAQ), as well as data on smoking status, alcohol consumption, comorbidities and RA treatment were analyzed.ResultsA total of 72 patients were evaluated, 90.27% females, mean age 50.2 ± 13.3 years, mean DAS 28: 3.66 and HAQ: 0.69. Of them, 43.05% were regularly active, with walking being the most often practiced exercise (80.64%). The mean duration of exercise was 48.22 ± 27.18 min, with a frequency of 3.7 ± 1.64 times per week. There was no association between physical activity and gender, age, educational level, disease activity, functional disability, alcoholism or smoking, presence of comorbidities and treatment with drugs that alter the course of disease.ConclusionGiven the importance of regular physical activity practice, it is necessary to recommend it to patients, especially resistance physical activities, which are not frequent among the patients in our study.