Midfoot Amputations as Adjuncts to Limb Preservation

Abstract

Midfoot amputations are viable options for limb preservation in cases of forefoot infection, diabetic ulcers, critical limb ischemia, trauma, or malignancy to avoid major lower-extremity amputation. Each level of midfoot amputation has limitations to consider including wound healing problems, soft-tissue contracture, or need for revisional amputations. However, some of these facets can be addressed perioperatively. Each midfoot amputation has benefits as viable options for limb and functional preservation and to avoid major limb amputation. There currently is no set guideline for level of midfoot amputation in patients with critical limb ischemia. Levels of amputation are determined by multiple factors including but not limited to degree of tissue loss, vascular status, the ability to preserve function, surgeon experience, and pertinent patient factors. This approach to limb salvage is best performed from a multi-disciplinary perspective.