Limb Salvage Research Articles

COMPARING THE OUTCOMES OF DIFFERENT EXTERNAL FIXATION TYPES FOR KNEE ARTHRODESIS FOLLOWING INFECTED TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

IntroductionKnee arthrodesis is a useful limb salvage technique to maintain function in patients with complex and infected total knee arthroplasties (TKA). There are a number of commonly used external fixators, but no consensus on which of these are optimal.The aim of this study was to synthesise the current literature to guide clinical decision making and improve patient outcomes. We systematically review the literature to compare outcomes of external fixators in arthrodesis following infected TKA.Materials & MethodsA systematic review of the literature of primary research articles investigating the use of external fixators for knee arthrodesis after an infected TKA was conducted. Relevant articles were identified with a search strategy on online databases (EMBASE and Medline) and reviewed by two independent reviewers.Clinical outcome measures were independently extracted by two reviewers which included union rate, infection eradication rate, complication rate, time to fusion, and time in frame.ResultsCircular frames were more likely to result in union compared to biplanar (OR 1.40 p=0.456) and monoplanar frames (OR 2.28 p=0.018). Infection recurrence was least likely in those treated by circular frames when compared to monoplanar (OR 0.12 p=0.005) and biplanar external fixators (0.41 P=0.331). Complication rates were highest in the circular fixator group, followed by the monoplanar fixator group and biplanar fixator group at 34%, 31% and 11% respectively.ConclusionsAnalysis of the available literature suggests higher union and infection eradication rates with circular frames over the other two fixation methods despite a higher complication rate. There is a paucity in the literature and therefore, no firm conclusions can be drawn. Further research investigating the variations and biomechanical properties between different external fixation methods for knee arthrodesis is necessary. Further clarity in reporting and pooled data would be useful for future analysis.

Atorvastatin Treatment Significantly Increased the Concentration of Bone Marrow-Derived Mononuclear Cells and Transcutaneous Oxygen Pressure and Lowered the Pain Scale after Bone Marrow Cells Treatment in Patients with "No-Option" Critical Limb Ischaemia.

The present study investigated the outcomes and possible predictive factors of autologous bone marrow cells (BMCs) therapy in patients with "no-option" critical limb ischaemia (CLI). It was focused on exploring the clinical background and prior statin and renin-angiotensin system (RAS)-acting agents pharmacotherapy related to the therapeutic efficacy of BMCs treatment. In the present study, we reviewed thirty-three patients (mean age 64.9 ± 10 years; 31 males) with advanced CLI after failed or impossible revascularisation, who were treated with 40 mL of autologous BMCs by local intramuscular application. Patients with limb salvage and wound healing (N = 22) were considered as responders to BMCs therapy, and patients with limb salvage and complete ischemic wound healing (N = 13) were defined as super-responders. Logistic regression models were used to screen and identify the prognostic factors, and a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve, a linear regression, and a survival curve were drawn to determine the predictive accuracy, the correlation between the candidate predictors, and the risk of major amputation. Based on the univariate regression analysis, baseline C-reactive protein (CRP) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) values were identified as prognostic factors of the responders, while CRP value, ankle-brachial index (ABI), and bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) concentration were identified as prognostic factors of the super-responders. An area under the ROC curve of 0.768 indicated good discrimination for CRP > 8.1 mg/L before transplantation as a predictive factor for negative clinical response. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant dependence between the levels of baseline CRP and the concentration of BM-MNCs in transplanted bone marrow. Patients taking atorvastatin before BMCs treatment (N = 22) had significantly improved TcPO2 and reduced pain scale after BMCs transplant, compared to the non-atorvastatin group. Statin treatment was associated with reduced risk for major amputation. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Statin use was also associated with a significantly higher concentration of BM-MNCs in the transplanted bone marrow compared to patients without statin treatment. Patients treated with RAS-acting agents (N = 20) had significantly reduced pain scale after BMCs transplant, compared to the non-RAS-acting agents group. Similar results, reduced pain scale and improved TcPO2, were achieved in patients treated with atorvastatin and RAS-acting agents (N = 17) before BMCs treatment. Results of the Spearman correlation showed a significant positive correlation between CLI regression, responders, and previous therapy before BMCs transplant with RAS-acting agents alone or with atorvastatin. CRP and TcPO2 were prognostic factors of the responders, while CRP value, ABI, and BM-MNCs concentration were identified as predictive factors of the super-responders. Atorvastatin treatment was associated with a significantly increased concentration of BM-MNCs in bone marrow concentrate and higher TcPO2 and lower pain scale after BMCs treatment in CLI patients. Similarly, reduced pain scales and improved TcPO2 were achieved in patients treated with atorvastatin and RAS-acting agents before BMCs treatment. Positive correlations between responders and previous treatment before BMCs transplant with RAS-acting agents alone or with atorvastatin were significant.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to End-Stage Limb Salvage in the Highly Comorbid Atraumatic Population: An Observational Study.

Background: The use of free tissue transfer (FTT) is efficacious for chronic, non-healing lower extremity (LE) wounds. The four pillars of managing patient comorbidities, infection control, blood flow status, and biomechanical function are critical in achieving successful limb salvage. The authors present their multidisciplinary institutional experience with a review of 300 FTTs performed for the complex LE limb salvage of chronic LE wounds. Methods: A single-institution, retrospective review of atraumatic LE FTTs performed by a single surgeon from July 2011 to January 2023 was reviewed. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, preoperative management, intraoperative details, flap outcomes, postoperative complications, and long-term outcomes were collected. Results: A total of 300 patients who underwent LE FTT were included in our retrospective review. Patients were on average 55.9 ± 13.6 years old with a median Charlson Comorbidity Index of 4 (IQR: 3). The majority of patients were male (70.7%). The overall hospital length of stay (LOS) was 27 days (IQR: 16), with a postoperative LOS of 14 days (IQR: 9.5). The most prevalent comorbidities were diabetes (54.7%), followed by peripheral vascular disease (PVD: 35%) and chronic kidney disease (CKD: 15.7%). The average operative LE FTT time was 416 ± 115 min. The majority of flaps were anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps (52.7%), followed by vastus lateralis (VL) flaps (25.3%). The immediate flap success rate was 96.3%. The postoperative ipsilateral amputation rate was 12.7%. Conclusions: Successful limb salvage is possible in a highly comorbid patient population with a high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, and end-stage renal disease. In order to optimize patients prior to their LE FTT, extensive laboratory, arterial, and venous preoperative testing and diabetes management are needed preoperatively. Postoperative monitoring and long-term follow-up with a multidisciplinary team are also crucial for long-term limb salvage success.

Influence of inframalleolar modifier P0/P1 on wound healing in bypass surgery vs endovascular therapy in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the influence of inframalleolar (IM) P0/P1 on wound healing in bypass surgery vs endovascular therapy (EVT) in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the multicenter data of patients who underwent infra-inguinal revascularization for CLTI between 2015 and 2022. IM P represents target artery crossing into foot, with intact pedal arch (P0) and absent or severely diseased pedal arch (P1). The endpoints were wound healing, limb salvage (LS), and postoperative complications. ResultsWe analyzed 66 and 189 propensity score-matched pairs in the IM P0 and IM P1 cohorts, respectively. In the IM P0 cohort, the 1-year wound healing rates were 94.5% and 85.7% in the bypass surgery and EVT groups, respectively (P = .092), whereas those in the IM P1 cohort were 86.2% and 66.2% in the bypass surgery and EVT groups, respectively (P < .001). In the IM P0 cohort, the 2-year LS rates were 96.7% and 94.1% in the bypass surgery and EVT groups, respectively (P = .625), and those in the IM P1 cohort were 91.8% and 81.5% in the bypass surgery and EVT groups, respectively (P = .004). No significant differences were observed between the bypass surgery and EVT in terms of postoperative complication rates in either the IM P0 or P1 cohorts. ConclusionsBypass surgery facilitated better wound healing and LS than EVT in patients with IM P1. Conversely, no differences in wound healing or LS were observed between groups in patients with IM P0. Bypass surgery should be considered a better revascularization strategy than EVT in patients with tissue loss and IM P1 disease.

Peripheral Arterial Insufficiency: A Comprehensive Review of Revascularization Surgery Benefits

Peripheral Arterial Insufficiency (PAI) is a common condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the extremities, leading to symptoms such as claudication, pain, and non-healing wounds. Revascularization surgery, including procedures like angioplasty and bypass grafting, has emerged as a cornerstone in the management of PAI, offering significant improvements in symptoms, quality of life, and limb salvage rates. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of PAI, including its pathophysiology, diagnostic modalities, and medical management. Additionally, the review highlights the various revascularization techniques available, their indications, outcomes, and the evolving role of endovascular interventions. Understanding the benefits and limitations of revascularization surgery is crucial for optimizing the care of patients with PAI and reducing the burden of this debilitating disease.

Combined Treatment of Native Femoropopliteal Occlusions in Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia Using Atherectomy Debulking and a New Sirolimus Drug-Coated Balloon (SELUTION SLR)

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to report the primary outcomes of a pilot study investigating the safety and efficacy of sirolimus drug-coated balloons (SELUTION) for endovascular postatherectomy treatment of native occluded femoropopliteal lesions in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Materials and Methods This study analyzes a cohort of CLTI patients with femoropopliteal artery occlusions treated with combined rotational atherectomy and postatherectomy angioplasty using the SELUTION device. The primary outcome measures were amputation-free survival (AFS) defined as time to major limb (above ankle) amputation of the index leg or death from any cause. Secondary outcome measures included technical success, overall survival, major amputation of the index leg, major adverse limb event (MALE) defined as major amputation or any further major revascularization intervention of the treated segment during the follow-up period and primary patency at 12 months. Results Between April 2021 and January 2022, nine patients (mean age: 64.0 ± 8.4, 66.7% male) with femoropopliteal occlusive lesions (mean lesion length: 141.1mm, range: 40–400) were treated with the above-combined approach. Technical success was 100%. At 12 months, the AFS was 88.9%, with one death and zero major amputations (88.9% survival and 100% limb salvage, respectively); only two patients (22.2%) suffered a MALE; primary patency was 75%. No adverse events related to the sirolimus drug-coated balloon nor to the atherectomy device were observed. Conclusion Combining sirolimus drug-coated balloon and atherectomy for treatment of femoropopliteal occlusions in CLTI patients is a safe and effective approach achieving satisfactory patency and adverse event rates.

Functional and oncological outcomes of patients with proximal humerus osteosarcoma managed by limb salvage.

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone malignancy in skeletally immature patients. The proximal humerus is the third most common site of osteosarcoma. The literature shows a paucity of published data concerning the outcome of proximal humerus osteosarcoma managed by limb salvage. The purpose of this study was to answer the following questions: (1) do patients with proximal humerus osteosarcoma managed by limb salvage and neoadjuvant chemotherapy show good functional and oncological outcomes, and (2) are there any prognostic factors that are associated with better oncological and functional outcomes? The study was a retrospective case series study assessing the overall outcome of 34 patients with proximal humerus osteosarcoma. Eighteen patients were males (53%) while 16 were females. Biological reconstruction was done in 15 patients (44%), while nonbiological reconstruction was done in 19 patients. Resections were mainly intraarticular (82%). Functional outcome was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score, while oncological outcome was assessed based on local recurrence and development of chest metastasis. Comparisons between quantitative variables were done using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test. To compare categorical data, the chi-square (χ2) test was performed. The exact test was used instead when the expected frequency was less than 5. Correlations between quantitative variables were examined using the Spearman correlation coefficient. The mean MSTS score was 25.5 (range 23-29). A younger age was statistically correlated with a poorer MSTS score (P = 0.0016). Six patients out of 34 (17.6%) had local recurrence and four of them (67%) were treated by forequarter amputation. 41% of patients developed chest metastasis, and the majority of them were treated by chemotherapy (71%). In comparison with patients with osteosarcoma at other sites who were also managed in our institution, proximal humerus osteosarcoma patients showed higher incidence rates of local recurrence and chest metastasis along with lower 5-year patient and limb survivorships compared to distal femur, proximal tibia and proximal femur osteosarcoma patients. Treatment of osteosarcoma of the proximal humerus by limb salvage and chemotherapy yields a good functional outcome. The method of reconstruction does not impact the resultant function. The 5-year survivorship of these patients is 65%. Younger patients have a better oncological outcome and an inferior functional outcome. Level IV therapeutic study.

3D-printed modular prostheses for reconstruction of intercalary bone defects after joint-sparing limb salvage surgery for femoral diaphyseal tumours.

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of 3D-printed modular prostheses in patients who underwent joint-sparing limb salvage surgery (JSLSS) for malignant femoral diaphyseal bone tumours. We retrospectively reviewed 17 patients (13 males and four females) with femoral diaphyseal tumours who underwent JSLSS in our hospital. In all, 17 patients with locally aggressive bone tumours (Enneking stage IIB) located in the femoral shaft underwent JSLSS and reconstruction with 3D-printed modular prostheses between January 2020 and June 2022. The median surgical time was 153 minutes (interquartile range (IQR) 117 to 248), and the median estimated blood loss was 200ml (IQR 125 to 400). Osteosarcoma was the most common pathological type (n = 12; 70.6%). The mean osteotomy length was 197.53 mm (SD 12.34), and the median follow-up was 25 months (IQR 19 to 38). Two patients experienced local recurrence and three developed distant metastases. Postoperative complications included wound infection in one patient and screw loosening in another, both of which were treated successfully with revision surgery. The median Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score at the final follow-up was 28 (IQR 27 to 28). The 3D-printed modular prosthesis is a reliable and feasible reconstruction option for patients with malignant femoral diaphyseal tumours. It helps to improve the limb salvage rate, restore limb function, and achieve better short-term effectiveness.

Iliac Vein Stenting and Thrombectomy Result in Limb Salvage in Phlegmasia Caerulea Dolens as a Result of Heavy Fibroid Burden.

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is a devastating sequelae of propagating deep vein thrombosis causing total venous outflow obstruction of an extremity. It is characterized by significant pain, edema, cyanosis, and critical limb ischemia and may progress toward venous gangrene. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with this phenomenon are high. Treatment options are limited and consist of early and aggressive therapeutic anticoagulation and fluid resuscitation, followed by thrombectomy or thrombolysis if the patient fails to respond clinically in 6-12hours.

Microvascular free flap coverage of complex soft tissue defects after revision total knee arthroplasty: a cross-sectional observation study.

Soft tissue defects after total knee arthroplasties (TKA) represent a major orthopedic challenge with amputation as a feared outcome. Microvascular free flap coverage (FFC) can increase limb salvage rates, but complications related to the procedure are yet to be explored further. We aimed to review a single-center experience with FFC for soft tissue defects related to revision total knee arthroplasty. Through a retrospective chart review from 2006 to 2021, we identified all patients who had FFC of a knee with an existing TKA. Typically, patients underwent 2-stage revision arthroplasty. To identify areas of intervention, we divided the entire regimen into 2 phases divided by the free flap surgery (pre- and post-free flap). We identified 18 patients with a median age at free flap surgery of 69 years (range 39-85), who were followed for a median of 5.1 years (range 2 months to 10.6 years). The median duration from primary TKA to their final operation was 17.5 months (range 19 days to 7 years). Patients underwent a mean of 7.6 surgical procedures on their knee with 3.6 orthopedic revisions prior to the FFC and 0.6 after. Soft tissue coverage was achieved in all patients and no patients underwent amputation. One-third of patients experienced early complications at recipient site after free flap surgery. There were no donor site complications. Microvascular FFC of complex soft tissue defects after revision total knee arthroplasty proved achievable in all patients with successful limb salvage in all patients.

Long-term limb salvage and functional outcomes for patients undergoing partial calcanectomy.

Partial calcanectomy (PC) can be performed to treat chronic heel ulcers in patients with calcaneal osteomyelitis. Patients undergoing PC often have multiple comorbidities, limited mobility, and face high risk of major limb amputation. This study examined the extent of vascular diagnostic testing and interventions as well as long-term outcomes in patients undergoing PC. A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent PC for non-healing calcaneal ulcer over a ten-year period. Demographics, comorbidities, vascular testing, and procedural data were recorded. Additional subgroup analysis was performed according to presence or absence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Primary outcomes were major limb amputation (above or below the knee) and mortality. Secondary outcomes included successful wound healing, time to complete wound healing, re-interventions, and change in ambulatory status. A total of 157 patients underwent partial calcanectomies on 162 limbs. 78.3% of patients had diabetes mellitus and 47.8% were diagnosed with PAD. Ankle brachial index with pulse volume recording (ABI/PVR) was performed for 46.5% (73/157) of patients, arterial duplex in 44.6% (70/157), and 19.7% (31/157) had a computed tomography angiogram. Lower extremity revascularization was performed in 28.4% of limbs (46/162). Independent ambulatory status was reported in 40.1% prior to PC and decreased to 17.9% by the time of last recorded follow-up (p < .00001). Long-term amputation-free survival was significantly higher in patients without PAD at 7 years (78.4% vs 57.1%, p = .02). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that PAD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) increased the odds of major limb amputation (OR 3.5 and 2.8, respectively), whereas ESRD and adjuvant podiatric procedures were associated with increased mortality (OR 4.8 and 4.8, respectively). Non-invasive vascular testing should be obtained in all patients undergoing PC, in order to stratify risk of amputation and identify candidates for revascularization. Over the long-term, patients undergoing PC face significant risk of prolonged wound healing, decline in ambulatory status, and major limb amputation.

Clinical outcomes of perforator-based propeller flaps versus free flaps in soft tissue reconstruction for lower leg and foot trauma: a retrospective single-centre comparative study.

The efficacy and safety of perforator-based propeller flaps (PPF) versus free flaps (FF) in traumatic lower leg and foot reconstructions are debated. PPFs are perceived as simpler due to advantages like avoiding microsurgery, but concerns about complications, such as flap congestion and necrosis, persist. This study aimed to compare outcomes of PPF and FF in trauma-related distal lower extremity soft tissue reconstruction. We retrospectively studied 38 flaps in 33 patients who underwent lower leg and foot soft tissue reconstruction due to trauma at our hospital from 2015 until 2022. Flap-related outcomes and complications were compared between the PPF group (18 flaps in 15 patients) and the FF group (20 flaps in 18 patients). These included complete and partial flap necrosis, venous congestion, delayed osteomyelitis, and the coverage failure rate, defined as the need for secondary flaps due to flap necrosis. The coverage failure rate was 22% in the PPF group and 5% in the FF group, with complete necrosis observed in 11% of the PPF group and 5% of the FF group, and partial necrosis in 39% of the PPF group and 10% of the FF group, indicating no significant difference between the two groups. However, venous congestion was significantly higher in 72% of the PPF group compared to 10% of the FF group. Four PPFs and one FF required FF reconstruction due to implant/fracture exposure from necrosis. Additionally, four PPFs developed delayed osteomyelitis post-healing, requiring reconstruction using free vascularized bone graft in three out of four cases. Flap necrosis in traumatic lower-leg defects can lead to reconstructive failure, exposing implants or fractures and potentially causing catastrophic outcomes like osteomyelitis, jeopardizing limb salvage. Surgeons should be cautious about deeming PPFs as straightforward and microsurgery-free procedures, given the increased complication rates compared to FFs in traumatic reconstruction. The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Paradigm Shift of Interventional Strategies and Outcomes for Acute Limb Ischemia Post-Pandemic.

We performed a large-scale comparison of patients treated for acute limb ischemia (ALI) in the pre-COVID (2017-2019) and COVID (2020-2022) eras to evaluate changes in interventional strategies and compare factors associated with adverse outcomes. We sought to characterize patient outcomes in an evolving ALI treatment algorithm in response to pandemic-associated presentation delays and rapid technological advancements in mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Using the TriNetX global research network, we conducted a multicenter query across 80 health care organizations (HCOs) spanning 4 countries for patients treated for ALI. Propensity score matching was performed to account for comorbidities. Risk of adverse outcomes within 30 days was calculated for each era, including re-intervention (RI30), major/minor amputation, and death. Patients were then stratified by initial intervention: open revascularization (OR), MT, or catheter-directed thrombolysis and adjunctive endovascular procedures alone (CDT/EP). Risk of adverse outcomes was compared between treatment groups of the same era. After propensity score matching, the pre-COVID era and COVID era cohorts included 7344 patients each. COVID era patients experienced a statistically significant higher risk of 30-day mortality (RR=1.211, p=0.027). Mechanical thrombectomy interventions were performed more frequently in the COVID era (RR=1.314, p<0.0001). Comparing outcomes between treatment groups, MT patients required RI30 more than OR patients (pre-COVID: RR=2.074, p=0.006; COVID: RR=1.600, p=0.025). Open revascularization patients had higher 30-day mortality (pre-COVID: RR=2.368, p<0.0001; COVID: RR=2.013, p<0.0001) and major amputations (pre-COVID: RR=2.432, p<0.0001; COVID: RR=2.176, p<0.0001) than CDT/EP. Pre-COVID CDT/EP patients were at higher risk for RI30 (RR=1.449, p=0.005) and minor amputations (RR=1.500, p=0.010) than OR. The MT group had higher major amputation rates than CDT/EP (pre-COVID: RR=2.043, p=0.019; COVID: RR=1.914, p=0.007). COVID-era MT patients had greater 30-day mortality (RR=1.706, p=0.031) and RI30 (RR=1.544, p=0.029) than CDT/EP. Significant shifts toward an MT-based approach have been observed in the last 3 years. Although MT required more RI30 than OR, there was no associated consequence of mortality and limb salvage. The increased mortality seen among COVID-era patients could be explained by delayed presentation, as well as poorly understood pro-thrombogenic or pro-inflammatory mechanisms related to the first waves of COVID. More research is necessary to determine an optimal treatment algorithm. Comorbid risk factors and severity of ischemia must be carefully considered before selecting an interventional strategy to prevent adverse outcomes and maximize limb salvage. Open revascularization strategies are associated with increased mortality and limb loss compared to less-invasive thrombolytic therapy alone. Mechanical thrombectomy (MT)-based approaches have been increasingly used in the last 3 years. Patients receiving MT are more likely to require reintervention within 30 days.

Surgical Outcomes and Complications of Custom-Made Prostheses in Upper Limb Oncological Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Bone tumors of the upper limb are a common cause of bone pain and pathological fractures in both old and young populations. Surgical reconstruction and limb salvage have become valid options for these patients despite this kind of surgery being challenging due to the need for wide bone resection and the involvement of surrounding soft tissues. Computer-assisted technology helps the surgeon in pre-operative planning and in designing customized implants. The aim of this study was to investigate the surgical outcomes and complications of custom-made prostheses in oncologic reconstruction of the upper limb and if they are reliable options for patients suffering from aggressive tumors. An electronic search on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Knowledge was conducted to identify all available articles on the use of custom-made prostheses in oncological resections of the upper limb. Twenty-one studies were included in the review, comprising a total of 145 patients with a mean age of 33.68 years. The bone involved was the humerus in 93 patients, and the radius was involved in 36 patients. There were only six cases involving proximal ulna, three cases involving the scapula, and seven cases involving the elbow as well as soft tissues around it. The most frequent primary tumor was the giant cell tumor, with 36 cases, followed by osteosarcoma with 25 cases, Ewing Sarcoma with 17 cases, and Chondrosarcoma with 7 total cases. Forty patients were affected by bone metastases (such as renal cell cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and rectal cancer) or hematologic diseases involving bone (lymphoma, myeloma, or non-Hodgkin disease). Custom-made prostheses are a viable option for patients who suffer from malignant tumors in their upper limbs. They are a reliable aid for surgeons in cases of extensive resections.

Using 3D Bioprinted Autologous Minimally Manipulated Homologous Adipose Tissue for Limb Salvage in Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcer.

Reconstructive surgeons face challenges when considering limb salvage methods for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). In this article, we present our experience with autologous fat grafting as a viable alternative in cases where flap reconstruction is difficult. We encountered a 78-year-old female patient with a nonhealing DFU who had multiple comorbidities, including renal failure and severe peripheral arterial disease. During the initial multidisciplinary meeting, due to extensive necrosis and osteomyelitis, amputation was recommended. However, the patient expressed a strong preference for a salvage procedure and refused amputation. After careful consideration, we opted to reconstruct the patient's foot using three-dimensional bioprinted autologous minimally manipulated homologous adipose tissue. The AMHAT was engrafted well without complications such as autolysis, graft failure, or infection. After the operation, the large defect with partial bone exposure was covered with healthy granulation tissue. The size of the wound decreased to less than half its original size after 6 weeks of surgery, and it decreased to less than 25% after 12 weeks of surgery. The AMHAT may be an appealing treatment option for diabetic foot patients who are unsuitable for flap reconstruction due to comorbidities.

Midfoot Amputations as Adjuncts to Limb Preservation

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.

Popliteal-to-Distal Extreme Bypass in Endovascular Era

ObjectivesChronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is characterized by rest pain and tissue loss, with an annual mortality rate of 20% and amputation rate of 40%, if not treated. Open bypass surgery is recommended in CLTI, depending on the availability of good quality venous material, outflow artery patency and surgical expertise. Aim of the study is to analyze primary patency, limb salvage and survival rate in patient undergoing popliteal-to-distal bypass. MethodsAll consecutive patients who underwent popliteal-to-distal bypass surgery between January 2016 and December 2021 were enrolled in the study. Primary outcomes were primary patency, limb salvage and overall survival. Secondary outcomes included amputation-free survival and secondary patency. ResultsForty-nine patients were included during the study. Technical success was achieved in 100% of cases. Target outflow artery was in 27% (n. 13) of cases the anterior tibial artery in 27% (n. 13) dorsalis pedis, in 2% (n. 1) the peroneal artery, in 30% (n. 15) the retro-malleolar tibial artery, in 10% (n. 5) the medial plantar artery, in 4% (n. 2) the tarsal artery. Two-year primary patency was 85%±5. Secondary patency rates was 86%±3 at two years. The overall survival was 81% ±6 at 2 years, the amputation free survival was 70% ±9, and the limb salvage rate was 81% ±6. ConclusionPopliteal-to-distal bypass require high technical expertise to be performed. When a good autologous vein and adequate outflow artery are present, they can be feasible with good patency rates, and overall survival.

The Management of Aneurysmal Degeneration of Lower Extremity Cryopreserved Saphenous Vein Bypass Grafts

Objective/BackgroundThe use of cryopreserved saphenous veins (CSVs) for the treatment of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease is an attractive option when there is no available autogenous vein. Prior studies found CSVs are at risk for aneurysmal degeneration requiring reoperation. As the management of these complications and patient outcomes is not well described, the objective of this case series is to describe the open and endovascular management of degenerative CSVs at a tertiary community center. MethodsAll CSVs implanted for lower extremity bypass at our institution between 2001 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. All CSVs with evidence of aneurysmal change were included in this study. CSVs with evidence of active infection were excluded. The decision to intervene was left to the discretion of the operating surgeon. Demographic data, indications for the index operation, and details about subsequent interventions for degenerative CSVs were recorded. Study endpoints included limb salvage and continued patency. Demographic data, indications for the index operation, and details about subsequent interventions for degenerative CSVs were recorded. ResultsSeventeen bypasses were identified to have aneurysmal degeneration in thirteen patients in the absence of infection between 2001 and 2021. Nine of the thirteen patients were male, and the average age and BMI during the index procedure were 72 and 28 respectively. Indications for the index bypass included acute limb ischemia (ALI) (9), popliteal aneurysm (2), and CLTI with Rutherford's class IV (5) and V (1).The mean time between the index procedure and first graft revision due to aneurysmal changes was 4 years. Most of the aneurysms did not occur at the site of anastomosis with 13 occurring in the body of the graft. Thirteen grafts were managed with open surgery and three were managed with endovascular techniques. All endovascular repairs were managed via covered stenting.Patients were followed for an average duration of 7 years from the initial bypass and 2 years from their last aneurysmal repair. Limb salvage in this cohort was 87% with 2 limbs requiring amputation, all of whom underwent open reconstruction. The mortality rate in this series was 54% and no patients died due to complications from their graft. Continued patency on Kaplan Meier survival curve analysis was 79% at 6 months, 65% at one year, 54% at three years, and 27% at 5 years. ConclusionIn our experience, aneurysmal degeneration of CSV grafts were mostly managed with standard open surgical techniques, although endovascular therapy also proved acceptable. Limb salvage rates and continued patency of repair at one year in this cohort were acceptable. This case series highlights the importance of diligent surveillance for patients with CSVs.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Heparin-Bonded Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Grafts for Below-The-Knee Femoral Bypass Surgery

Heparin-bonded expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (hb-ePTFE) synthetic grafts are an alternative to autologous vein grafts (AVG) for surgical bypass interventions in lower limb peripheral arterial disease (LLPAD). However, the clinical benefits of hb-ePTFE grafts have not been reviewed systematically for patients undergoing below-the-knee (BK) surgical bypass. This study aimed to meta-analyze available data on the utility of hb-ePTFE in patients undergoing BK surgical bypass. Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched, restricted to material in English with no date restriction. In addition, proceedings from relevant congresses were screened going back 2years. The search was performed in December 2021. Eligible studies included prospective or retrospective comparative studies or prospective single-arm cohorts with an hb-ePTFE arm. Methodological quality was assessed with the ROBINS-I criteria. Outcomes included primary patency, amputation/limb salvage, and overall survival. Clinical outcomes were expressed as event rates. Studies were compared using meta-analysis to generate a standardized mean event rate for each outcome, with its 95% confidence interval (95% CI), using a random-effects model. Following deduplication, 10,263 records were identified and 261 were assessed as full texts. No prospective comparative studies were identified. The level of evidence was uniformly low. Seventeen publications describing data from 9 individual patient cohorts met the inclusion criteria. These cohorts included a total of 1,452 patients undergoing BK surgical bypass with hb-ePTFE. The primary patency rate was 78.9% [95% CI: 72.2-85.7%] at 1year, 68.2% [95% CI: 62.8-73.6%] at 2years, decreasing to 48.0% [95% CI: 27.3-68.7%] at 5years. The secondary patency rate was 84.8% [95% CI: 77.0-92.5%] at 1year and 68.9% [95% CI: 43.0-94.9%] at 3years; the 1-year limb salvage rate was 88.3% [95% CI: 79.6-97.1%] at 1year and 79.0% [95% CI: 56.7-100%] at 3years. In patients undergoing BK bypass surgery, hb-ePTFE synthetic grafts, compared to uncoated grafts, perform well for patency and limb salvage. However, the quality of the evidence is low, and well-performed randomized clinical trials are needed to inform clinical decision-making on the choice of synthetic graft.

In the Loop: Endovascular Pedal Arch Revascularization

Advanced endovascular techniques are increasingly being utilized to treat patients with peripheral arterial disease and chronic limb threatening ischemia to improve lower extremity arterial perfusion. In diabetic patients pedal arch patency has been associated with improved wound healing, limb salvage and overall survival. Pedal-plantar loop revascularization is a technique that can restore arterial inflow between the dorsal and plantar arteries of the foot. This article will describe the inframallelolar arterial anatomy and focus on imaging, percutaneous endovascular techniques and clinical study outcomes of pedal artery interventions.