Disarticulation at the ankle using an anterior flap - A preliminary report

Disarticulation has been carried out in ten ankles in nine patients in whom it was not possible to use a heel flap, Four patients were able to walk wi th a prosthesis which gave satisfactory function. In five who were bedridde n, healing was achieved and was of sufficient quality to allow transfers. T here was no operative morbidity or mortality. This technique can be used instead of a transtibial amputation if necrosis or ischaemia of the heel is a contraindication to conventional Syme's amput ation.