Distal tibiofibular bone-bridging in transtibial amputation. Journal Article

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Authors: Pinzur MS; Beck J; Himes R; Callaci J; Pinzur, Michael S; Beck, Jennifer; Himes, Ryan; Callaci, John
Article Title: Distal tibiofibular bone-bridging in transtibial amputation.
Abstract: <bold>Background: </bold>The creation of a bone bridge between the residual tibia and fibula is a controversial surgical technique used in the performance of transtibial amputation.<bold>Methods: </bold>Twenty consecutive patients who underwent a unilateral transtibial amputation, as a consequence of traumatic injury, had distal tibiofibular bone-bridging performed by a single surgeon. Eight completed the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), a validated outcomes instrument designed to measure patient self-reported health-related quality of life after a lower-extremity amputation. Their responses were compared with those of a previously reported control group of nondiabetic patients who had undergone transtibial amputation with the use of a traditional technique and with those of a previously reported consecutive group of Brazilian patients, including twelve who were diabetic, who had undergone a similar bone-bridge procedure.<bold>Results: </bold>The scores in the American bone-bridge group were similar to those in the control group and not as good as those in the Brazilian bone-bridge group. The American bone-bridge and control groups scored lower in the Social Burden, Ambulation, Frustration, Sounds, Utility, and Well-Being domains of the PEQ.<bold>Conclusions: </bold>While many experts in the care of amputees believe that the distal tibiofibular bone-bridge technique improves patient functional outcomes, our small group of patients treated with this procedure did not appear to have better outcomes than a group of patients treated successfully with a standard surgical technique. More information is needed before the bone-bridge technique can be recommended as an important component of standard transtibial amputation surgery. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR
Journal Title: Journal of Bone Joint Surgery, American Volume
Publisher: Unknown  
Date Published: 2008