Delayed amputation in lower limb trauma: an analysis of factors leading to delayed amputation.

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Abstract

[Indexed for MEDLINE] 19. Foot Ankle Spec. 2013 Oct;6(5):384-8. doi: 10.1177/1938640013501548. Epub 2013 Aug 21. Skin demarcation and amputation level for foot gangrene following meningococcal septicemia. Singh D(1), Swann A. Author information: (1)Foot and Ankle Unit, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Middlesex, UK. A case report of a 55-year-old woman who was being considered for bilateral below knee or Syme's amputations after gangrene at the level of both forefeet due to meningococcal septicaemia is described. An expectant approach for 6 months revealed that the tissues deep to the necrotic skin were viable and she was subsequently able to mobilize independently with normal footwear after bilateral toe amputations at the metatarsophalangeal joint levels. This case and a literature review suggest that the demarcation of healthy skin from necrotic skin (eschar) should not dictate the level of amputation in dry gangrene of the foot following meningococcal septicemia. Magnetic resonance imaging can overestimate the degree of muscle necrosis. Treatment should be individualized for each patient, but advice should include the option of prolonged conservative treatment to preserve limb length and function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case study. DOI: 10.1177/1938640013501548