Internal Pedal Amputation in Diabetic Forefoot Ulcers

Abstract

Objective: Approximately 80% of diabetic foot wounds occur in the front foot. Most of these wounds are associated with bone and joint involvement. Toe amputations and ray amputations are the most frequently performed surgical interventions for lesions limited to the front foot. Many diabetic patients refuse surgery despite having advanced deformities that may cause serious injuries. In regard of such patients, we devised a new alternative surgical procedure that maintains the appearance of the toe and is not perceived by patients as amputation.