One-stage bilateral above-knee reаmputation for osteomyelitis

Abstract

One-stage bilateral femoral amputations (re-amputations) are typical for wartime. The most common causes of bilateral femoral amputations (re-amputations) are vascular diseases, diabetic complications, bone infections, tumors and rarely injuries. The operation is not easy, but often the problems arise from the critically impaired general condition of the patients. Usually there is no time for adequate preparation. Ordinarily, operations take place against a background of worsening haemodynamic signs and at an extremely high risk. The patients with bilateral above knee amputation are a major challenge for post-operative rehabilitation and verticalization. Aim To draw attention to the need for precise implementation of bilateral femoral amputations and the difficulties associated with the treatment of infectious complications. Material and method The presented case is 81 years old man affected by bilateral osteomyelitis of femoral bones after above knee amputation. Results The operative wounds were healed per primam intentionem. The infection disappeared. The patient is in good general condition. A physiotherapy course was conducted to improve the general condition and training for walking by prothesis. Discussion One - stage bilateral above-knee amputation (re-amputation) are rare peacetime operations typically performed in patients on vital indications. The аtraumatic and myoplastic approach to the amputation is so important for the rapid recovery of the patient`s generall condition and adaptation to the external prosthesis. Conclusion The non-exact surgical technique applied to the patients indicated for bilateral above knee-amputation results in prolonged recovery, inability to verticalization and a risk to the patient`s life.