Shaikh N, Vaughan P, Varty K, Coll AP, Robinson AH, et al.
The bone & joint journal. Date of publication 2013 Aug 1;volume 95-B(8):1083-7.
1. Bone Joint J. 2013 Aug;95-B(8):1083-7. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.95B8.31280.
Outcome of limited forefoot amputation with primary closure in patients with
diabetes.
Shaikh N(1), Vaughan P, Varty K, Coll AP, Robinson AH.
Author information:
(1)Addenbrooke's Hospital, Orthopaedic Department, Cambridge University Hospitals
NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
Limited forefoot amputation in diabetic patients with osteomyelitis is frequently
required. We retrospectively reviewed diabetic patients with osteomyelitis, an
unhealed ulcer and blood pressure in the toe of > 45 mmHg who underwent limited
amputation of the foot with primary wound closure. Between 2006 and 2012, 74
consecutive patients with a mean age of 67 years (29 to 93), and a median
follow-up of 31 months, were included. All the wounds healed primarily at a
median of 37 days (13 to 210; mean 48). At a median of 6 months (1.5 to 18; mean
353 days), 23 patients (31%) suffered a further ulceration. Of these, 12 patients
(16% of the total) required a further amputation. We conclude that primary wound
closure following limited amputation of the foot in patients with diabetes is a
safe and effective technique when associated with appropriate antibiotic
treatment.
DOI: 10.1302/0301-620X.95B8.31280
PMID: 23908424 [Indexed for MEDLINE]
