Initial care of massively traumatized lower extremities
McAndrew, M.P.; Lantz, B.A.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 243: 20-29
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-921X PMID: 2721064 Document Number: 338339
From July 1985 through July 1987, 19 patients with 20 massively traumatized lower limbs were treated using a standardized protocol, including early consultation with microvascular and plastic surgeons and a nurse-practitioner. This early consultation allowed for timely reconstruction as well as patient and family counseling. Thirteen of these 20 limbs (65%) were salvaged. Of the seven amputations, one patient died and two patients were lost to follow-up study. The results of the 16 remaining patients with 17 affected limbs were reviewed. Seventy-five percent were ambulatory in less than one year following surgery. All were ambulatory without external aids or orthoses at final follow-up examination. A rapid return to previous activities was a direct result of early decision making.