Charcot Vs Amputation Essay

CHARCOT FOOT VS TRANSTIBIAL AMPUTATION

A transtibial amputation, also known as a bellow knee amputation is one of the most frequently performed amputations. Amputation is a choice for diseased limbs, severe injury to lower limbs for which attempts at salvage can be lengthy, emotionally and financially costly. Transtibial amputations may be performed for the following reasons:

-Trauma

-Tumors

-Infections

-Peripheral Vascular Diseases

This assignment is based on Amputation vs Charcot foot. Do patients prefer living with an amputation or living with charcot foot syndrome? Which gives a better quality of life? To answer these questions we need more knowledge and a better understanding on what charcot syndrome foot actually is.

Charcot foot disease is a very serious condition and it is very common in diabetic patients. (LC Rogers 2011)

Increased blood sugar level in diabetics leads to damage of blood vessels, nerves and impaired circulation. Damage to nerves causes peripheral neuropathy, leading to deficits in sensation, autonomic dysfunction and motor impairments. Most patients that develop charcot foot have a high level of peripheral neuropathy. It typically occurs following a minor injury like a sprain or fracture.

In the early 1960s Eichenholtz summarized and collected data from literature, clinical and radiographic findings. He

The research showed that limb salvage is the first option, unless osteomyelitis is developed, in which case amputation is required. It is also more cost effective to amputate and it requires inpatient rehabilitation. Their findings also included that successful correction allows patients more independence, leading to longer survival and improved quality of life. Many detractors also suggested that surgery is not justified given the risks associated with