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Objective: Soft tissue repair of the distal leg is a challenge for the surgeon. The objective of our work is to evaluate the interest of medial plantar flaps in the repair of soft tissue loss in the distal quarter of the leg, by highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of this technique., Methods: We conducted a retrospective study over 4 years in the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Burn Surgery of the Mohammed V Military Teaching Hospital of Rabat, including 8 patients admitted for coverage of a distal quarter of the leg with a medial plantar flap., Results: Eight patients were included, 5 men and 3 women with an average age of 45.5 years. All patients received coverage with a medial plantar flap. The functional and aesthetic results were very good with a low complication rate., Conclusion: The medial plantar flap should no longer be reserved for covering loss of substance of the foot only, but should be integrated into the therapeutic arsenal of reconstruction of the distal quarter of the leg., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Résumé: Depuis que Koshima et Soeda ont décrit les lambeaux perforants en 1988, Wei a amélioré la technique en mettant au point des free style perforator flap. Ces lambeaux ont l’avantage de pouvoir être réalisés sur toutes les perforantes cutanées en diminuant la morbidité du site donneur. L’inconvénient est que la taille de leur angiosome n‘est pas définie et l’évaluation de leur taille relève de l’expérience du chirurgien. Nous proposons d’évaluer la taille d’un angiosome grâce à la réalisation peropératoire d’une angiographie. L’angiographie peropératoire est réalisée après perfusion de vert d’indocyanine. La stimulation du vert d’indocyanine par un rayonnement infrarouge entraîne l’émission d’un rayonnement fluorescent. Cette fluorescence est détectée par une caméra dédiée qui permet la visualisation en temps réel de la perfusion cutanée. Nous présentons le cas d’un patient de 39ans qui présentait une fracture du pilon tibial ouverte, pour lequel nous avons réalisé un lambeau en hélice pédiculé sur une perforante de la tibiale postérieure. L’angiographie a permis de déterminer plusieurs niveaux de perfusion cutanée, avec une fluorescence élevée, intermédiaire et absente. La partie non vascularisée de la palette a été réséquée. Compte tenu du manque de fiabilité de la technique pour les zones hypoperfusées, la zone intermédiaire a été conservée. Celle-ci a finalement évolué vers la nécrose, nécessitant un parage secondaire. L’angiographie au vert d’indocyanine peut être un outil décisionnel peropératoire utile pour le chirurgien. Elle permet d’ajuster la taille de palette cutanée des lambeaux perforants en hélice à l’angiosome de la perforante choisie. Néanmoins, cette méthode d’évaluation nécessite d’être améliorée avec l’instauration d’un seuil quantitatif. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé: Les auteurs rapportent 89 cas (86 patients) de reconstruction de pertes de substance extensives de membre inférieur par lambeaux libres opérés de 1978 à 2013. L’âge moyen des blessés était de 37ans et 2 mois (5 à 84ans). On retrouve 71 hommes et 15 femmes. Les lambeaux libres furent utilisés en urgence dans 23 cas pour couvrir principalement des fractures ouvertes III b de Gustilo et à distance du traumatisme dans 66 cas chez les patients adressés le plus souvent en secondaire dans le service pour couvrir l’os exposé, siège fréquent d’une ostéite chronique. Concernant le type de lambeaux libres, il s’agissait de lambeau de latissimus dorsi dans 47 cas, d’épiploon dans 12 cas (milieu septique), de lambeau de Gracilis 10 fois, de serratus anterior dans 10 cas. On note 1 lambeau de gastrocnémien medial, 2 lambeaux composite de péroné-? soléaire externe, 2 lambeaux antébrachiaux, 1 lambeau composite ostéo-musculo-cutané inguinal, 1 membre banque et 1 lambeau cutanéo-graisseux inguinal. On dénombre 18 échecs de lambeau libre : 1 en urgence et 17 en secondaire. Les auteurs analysent les résultats (complications, ostéite) en fonction du délai de couverture. Ils retrouvent ainsi un taux d’infection et d’échec faibles (4 %) quand le geste de couverture est réalisé dans le même temps opératoire que l’ostéosynthèse, alors qu’ils passent à 60 % pour l’infection et à 23 % quand il est réalisé ultérieurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé: Lors de la réalisation d’une amputation du membre inférieur, la préservation de l’articulation du genou est importante afin d’obtenir un résultat fonctionnel optimal. De nombreuses options thérapeutiques sont à la disposition du chirurgien pour la couverture de ces amputations afin de maintenir une longueur suffisante, permettant un appareillage prothétique idéal. Les lambeaux musculocutanés locorégionaux ou les lambeaux libres sont classiquement décrits avec leurs avantages et inconvénients. Nous rapportons le cas d’une couverture de moignon d’amputation transtibiale par un lambeau fasciocutané basé sur les perforantes tibiales postérieures. Il s’agissait d’une exposition osseuse étendue du tibia avec uniquement l’étui cutané postérieur de la jambe viable. Le lambeau a été une solution de couverture de moignon tibial efficace, fiable sans nécessité de transfert libre et permettant un appareillage satisfaisant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: Management of the perioperative hemorrhagic risk is of major interest in patients undergoing total arthroplasty of the lower limb. Anemia in the postoperative period of that increasingly performed surgery carries its own morbidity and mortality. Better anticipation of its occurrence could be done with a refined knowledge of bleeding kinetics. Patients and methods: We conducted a retrospective study in a single centre on 451 consecutive patients undergoing elective unilateral primary total hip or knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis. Volume of total blood loss according to Mercuriali''s formula and variations of haemoglobin levels were calculated between day 0 (D0) and postoperative day 8 (D8), and during subdivided periods between D0–D1, D1–D3 and D3–D8. Frequency and volume of autologous and homologous blood transfusions were also analyzed. Comparisons were done taking into account the use of intraoperative tranexemic acid (TA). Results: Seventy to 75% of blood loss occurred between D0 and D1. Bleeding occurred mostly between the end of surgery and morning of D1, and tended to stop at D3. TA significantly reduced blood loss in the first 3days, mostly after knee prosthesis surgery. However, the bleeding kinetics were the same with or without TA. Conclusion: Loss of haemoglobin occurred mostly in the early postoperative period. To avoid transfusion delays, haemoglobin levels should be monitored regularly until the third postoperative day after total arthroplasty, especially when D1 haemoglobin is close to the transfusion threshold. Furthermore, our results support the routine use of TA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: The authors report their experience about more than 50 patients with soft tissue defects in the area of the lower leg, of the ankle and of the dorsal aspect of the foot and toes, managed with the Extensor digitorum brevis flap. We have most often perfomed it with a proximal pedicle. Healing was obtained for all case. Infections of malleola have been treated thank to the better delivery of antibiotics. The donor site shows often delayed healing, but in one case, the harvestment area has presented a complete necrosis, wich healed with immobilisation of the ankle with external fixator and dressings. At last, we insist on the fast learning of the procedure and the aim to use it in humanitary mission. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Since more than 50years, many surgeons all around the world try to find the perfect surgical technique to treat limb lymphedemas. Decongestive physiotherapy associated with the use of a compressive garment has been the primary choice for lymphedema treatment. Many different surgical techniques have been developed, however, to date, there is no consensus on surgical procedure. Most surgical experts of lymphedema met in the second European Conference on supermicrosurgery, organized on March 1st and 2nd 2012, in San Pau Hospital, Barcelona. Together they tried to clarify these different options and ideally a strategy for using these techniques. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Background: Surgery is the standard treatment of the chronic compartment syndrome in the lower limb (CCSLL). However, pain and activity restrictions may persist after surgery. Objective: To assess the clinical outcomes after surgery in CCSLL and to find some prognosis factors. Method: Retrospective study on 16 patients surgically treated, mean age 27 years three quarter. Symptoms before surgery lasted from three months to two years (median ten months). The treatment evaluation was achieved by a questionnaire during a phone call. Results: Among the patients, 37,5% reported no pain at all and 62,5% retrieved an activity level equal to their previous practice. Decreased activity level occurred when the posterior compartment was involved (P =0.008) and when the initial symptoms were atypical (P =0.035). An atypical clinical presentation may also lead to incomplete pain sedation (P =0.011). Conclusion: The results of the surgical treatment are variable, on pain as on activity level and depend on the compartment involved and the initial clinical picture. In these circumstances, the search of an alternative diagnosis is essential. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: The triceps surae muscle is a major donor-site for muscle-flap to cover soft-tissue defects of the leg. There are very limited datas on the functional donor-site morbidity in the literature. From a retrospective study on 14 patients, we realized a baropodometric analysis comparing the operated lower limb with the healthy non operated side and a functional evaluation by a questionary. The modified functional score of Kitatoka was good (87/100). Ninety percent of the patients were able to resume a professional activity and 2/3 to resume the sport. The baropodometric analysis did not show statistically significant difference of propulsion and absorption between the healthy side and the operated side, but a modification of the programming of the step. The absence of important functional donor-site morbidity is probably bound to a compensation of the remaining triceps surae muscles and/or to mechanisms of adaptation. Our study confirms the little functional donor-site morbidity of the partial triceps surae muscle-flap procedure. These flaps remain a good solution for the coverage of the soft-tissue defects of the leg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The goal of the reconstruction of complex defects of the leg is to restaure morphology, trophicity and function. The purpose of our study was to analyse the reliability of the latissimus dorsi scapula flap in this indication. We realized an anatomical study on 12 cadaver dissections. The presence of the angular artery was found to be constant with four types of origins described in this article. The same technique was applied on three patients presenting a complexe tissue loss of the middle third of the tibia. This clinical application confirmed the validity of the technique. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The distally based sural neurocutaneous flap (Masquelet et al., 1992) has proved to be a useful technique for lower limb skin defect reconstruction. We report our experience in a 60 case series for the coverage of foot, ankle, and distal third of the leg with success in 58 cases and 2 failures. For one of these, a total necrosis occurred after a technical problem when harvesting the pedicle, while the second failure was due to a severe inferior limb vascular disability. In 14 cases, a partial venous congestion with a slight epidermolysis or a marginal necrosis was observed but it resolved without sequel. Seventeen patients presented with distal vascular impairment and/or neuropathies (i.e. diabetes mellitus, arteriosclerosis, vascular lesions) of the inferior limb and our experience favour a larger pedicle trimming than in normal cases to avoid venous congestion of the skin paddle. In 18 cases, when undermining of skin between the pivot-point and the defect site to be covered was too hazardous, we used an external pedicle either temporary and severed a few weeks after or skin grafted. This is a helpful mean when local condition of the skin to be undermined for pedicle tunnelling may interfere with the final issue. This one-stage simple technique, without major vascular sacrifice and with minor consequences at the donor site, is reliable for the distal third of the inferior limb, ankle, and dorsal foot aspect reconstruction, the heel-bearing zone excepted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cholesterol crystal embolism is observed in polyvascular patients usually following a medical procedure. We report a 93-year-old patient with lower limb mononeuropathy in whom cholesterol crystal embolism was confirmed by neuromuscular biopsy. Previously, an ophthalmoscopy and a livedo biopsy had been performed and the results were normal. Mononeuropathy simplex or multiplex is a clinical expression for cholesterol crystal embolism that may thus be confounded with polyarteritis nodosa. Neuromuscular biopsy can provide accurate diagnosis if other investigations are inconclusive. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Amputation of a limb is a serious consequence of snakebite poisoning. It is caused by the toxicity of the venom and often the use of a tourniquet in some patients, which can lead to limb ischemia. Management of the victim aims to ensure survival and preserve the function of the bitten limb. Antivenom immunotherapy is the only specific treatment for ophidian envenomation. It is indicated in cases of general symptoms and signs related to the bite, but also if local damage could lead to the loss of limb function. The authors report on a case of snakebite that led to amputation at the thigh., (Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier SAS.)

The main causes of lower limb amputations are peripheral artery disease (92% of the cases) and trauma (7%). The selection of the amputation level aims at optimizing the chances of healing and the functionality of the involved limb. Foot preserving amputations offer the best functional outcome but the healing process is frequently slow and difficult. After a below-knee amputation, 60% of the patients are capable of ambulating again, whereas only 20% of the patients undergoing an above-knee amputation ambulate autonomously. Complications after amputations are frequent, can occur a long time after surgery and must be managed by a highly specialized team.

Background: The aim of this study was to review and present our experience with pedicled flap reconstruction of lower limb defects with particular reference to choice of flap, complications and pre-existing health disorders., Methods: A retrospective review of lower limb reconstructions by pedicled flaps was carried out by the plastic and reconstructive surgery unit at Marseille's hospitals from January 1st, 1997 to December 31st, 2007. This study evaluated patients satisfaction and complications rate., Results: During 10 years, 152 patients had 157 local flap reconstructions of lower limb defects. General patients satisfaction was 94% with 80% good or very good results and 20% of medium results. There were 16 immediate complications with three total necrosis, four partial necrosis, six hematoma, and three infections. There were nine late complications including wound dehiscence and graft instability. There were 11 functional sequels and 40 aesthetic sequels secondary to flaps., Conclusions: The current study presented our experience with locoregional flap reconstruction of lower limb defects. Lower limb reconstruction used a lot of locoregional flaps which had their own advantages and disadvantages. Their indication depended on the fiability and quality of the donor site., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

We are reporting two cases of chronic neuropathic pain after traumatism during regional anaesthesia (RA). Nerve injury is a rare complication of RA and it is the neurogical deficit, which is the most often quoted in medical literature. However, in both cases the neuropathic pain was the single departure point. The reunion of the clinical element, which incorporates possible traumatism during regional anaesthesia, characteristics of pain and unusual painful localization of surgery, should have allowed a more early diagnostic and treatment. In both cases, persistent neuropathic pain incapacitates the patient several years after the traumatism., (2011. Published by Elsevier SAS.)

Aim: Major lower limb amputation in elderly patients is a dreaded event with high mortality and morbidity. Peripheral arterial disease is the nearly exclusive etiology. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the feasibility of through-knee amputation, and the morbidity and mortality risk in the elderly (>65 years)., Patients and Methods: From January 2000 to October 2010, 65 Gritti-Stokes through-knee amputations were performed in 58 patients (30 women, 28 men; mean age 79 years). Acute limb ischemia was the most common cause (40%). The others indications were: severe peripheral arterial disease with extensive necrotic lesions (19%), diabetic foot ulcers (15%), non-healing below-knee amputation (10%) and vascular graft infection after prosthetic lower extremity bypass surgery (6%)., Results: Overall 30-day mortality was 24% (n=14/58). Vascular morbidity was 9% (n=6/65). The mean hospital stay was 31 days (range 3 to 96). The overall healing rate was 78% (n=51/65). Conversion to above-knee amputation for failed Gritti-Stokes amputation was performed in one patient., Conclusion: Gritti-Stokes amputation is feasible in the elderly with an acceptable one-month mortality and a satisfactory overall healing rate. Most amputations are necessitated by complications of acute limb ischemia. For this subpopulation, Gritti-Stokes amputation should be the standard amputation level. The data collected in this study provide important information that can be useful before amputation for this population, their families and primary care physicians. Ambulation is an important postoperative goal and a multidisciplinary approach in specialized centers is required to achieve good wound healing rates., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

The triceps surae muscle is a major donor-site for muscle-flap to cover soft-tissue defects of the leg. There are very limited datas on the functional donor-site morbidity in the literature. From a retrospective study on 14 patients, we realized a baropodometric analysis comparing the operated lower limb with the healthy non operated side and a functional evaluation by a questionary. The modified functional score of Kitatoka was good (87/100). Ninety percent of the patients were able to resume a professional activity and 2/3 to resume the sport. The baropodometric analysis did not show statistically significant difference of propulsion and absorption between the healthy side and the operated side, but a modification of the programming of the step. The absence of important functional donor-site morbidity is probably bound to a compensation of the remaining triceps surae muscles and/or to mechanisms of adaptation. Our study confirms the little functional donor-site morbidity of the partial triceps surae muscle-flap procedure. These flaps remain a good solution for the coverage of the soft-tissue defects of the leg., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

During the surgical treatment of burns and reconstructive surgery, we can use autografts, allografts, xenografts or dermal substitutes. Acellular dermal substitutes, implantable medical devices of class III are composed mostly of collagen but also, more recently, derivatives of hyaluronic acid (Hyalomatrix PA(®)). Their mechanism of action is based on revascularization and colonization by fibroblasts of the patient. They are then used to screen for delayed epidermal grafting (2-stage procedure for Integra(®), Matriderm(®) 2mm, Renoskin(®), Hyalomatrix PA(®)) or simultaneous (1-time procedure for IntegraSL(®), Matriderm(®) 1mm). We report 10 cases of clinical use of Hyalomatrix PA(®) in the service of burns and plastic surgery of Nantes., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Our experience of the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap has led us to perform systematically an abdominal CT-scan for the pretherapeutic checking. This exam gives us a precise vascular mapping of musculocutaneous and septocutaneous perforators artery of the flap, may enable a better orientation in the dissection and reduce the surgery time. We have enlarged the indication of this exam to the members flaps who needs the dissection of a musculocutaneous or a septocutaneous perforators vessels: Nakajima's et al. classification [1]. The mapping of perforating vessels on 3D reconstruction pictures helps us to planify the vascular cutaneous autologous grafts., (2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

An echogenic tumor (22 x 22 mm) isolated from the anterior part of the left leg at 27 WA of pregnancy suggested an angiomatous structure. This mass appeared to be well vascularized on Doppler examination. Three-dimensional imaging showed connections with adjacent tissues. The limbs were mobile. Delivery of a 3990-g-boy occurred normally. On the anterior part of the left leg, there was a plate-shaped mass with a pink hole at the superior part. Excision under general anesthesia was performed at the first month because of the risk of rupture and bleeding. The dissection was easy with the deep plane. Healing was complete 10 days after the surgical procedure and the aesthetic aspect was good 1 year later. Histological findings of the suspect mass emphasize the vascular aspect of the tumor. A hemangioma capillary with venous structures in the dermal hypodermic area was found., (Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier SAS.)

Objective: To evaluate the results of a user satisfaction questionnaire on a new type of lever-propelled wheelchair designed to avoid the discomfort and potential repetitive strain injuries related to conventional hand-rim propulsion., Methods: Seventeen participants filled out a questionnaire to rate their conventional wheelchair and the prototype (after 2 days' use) in terms of comfort, adjustability, steering/ride, manoeuvrability, stability when crossing obstacles, safety, weight, size, portability and appearance. Overall satisfaction was also scored., Results: According to the user questionnaire results, the lever-propelled prototype chair was rated as significantly superior than conventional wheelchairs in terms of comfort, safety and overall satisfaction. The prototype was rated significantly inferior in terms of size, adaptability, appearance and crossing obstacles., Conclusion: We conclude that the prototype wheelchair is highly acceptable and comfortable and can be recommended to disabled sportspersons. The prototype's weak points are mainly related to ergonomic aspects, which could be improved in future models., (2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: The usual technique of parasacral sciatic nerve block seems an approach easily achieved, however, the ischial tuberosity is difficult to palpate. [1] The purpose of the study was to propose new skin landmarks improved by an anatomical and clinical study., Patients and Methods: Three cadaver dissections made previously have shown that our skin landmarks appeared correct. Twenty consenting patients, ASA I to III, proposed for lower limb surgery, were included in this descriptive and prospective study. The patient was positioned in the Sim position. A line was drawn between the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the sacral hiatus (HS). A second line was drawn from the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) and perpendicular to the 1st line. The puncture site (P) was the intersection of these two lines. At point P, the needle was inserted perpendicularly to the skin. Twenty milliliters of a mixture of lidocaine 2% and bupivacaine 0.5% were injected after obtaining an appropriate motor response. Sensory block was assessed 30 minutes after performing block in the territories of the tibial nerve, peroneal and posterior cutaneous of thigh. Parasacral block success was defined by the extension of sensory block in the territories of the tibial and fibular nerves. Complications were noted. An independent observer recorded: the time to perform blocks, the depth of the sciatic nerve, the number of needle redirections, the quality of nerve block of patient, and patient satisfaction., Results: The success rate was 95% (19 of 20 cases). Seventy-five percent of blocks were performed by residents on training. The point P was determined at the first attempt. The time required to perform the block was 3 + or - 1.7 min and depth of the sciatic nerve was 81 + or - 17 mm. The rate of patient satisfaction was 85%. One vascular puncture was observed. We have not noted other complications., Discussion: Access to the sciatic foramen appears to be facilitated by these new surface landmarks, which are simple and reliable. Our new skin landmarks seemed valid for all morphotypes., (Copyright 2009. Published by Elsevier SAS.)

We report the case of a 61-year old man in whom a deep venous thrombosis was the presenting feature of disseminated lung carcinoma. A few days later, an arterial thrombosis occurred necessitating amputation. Within a few weeks, the lung cancer progressed dramatically and the patient died. While the association between venous thrombosis and cancer is well known, the relationship between cancer and arterial thrombosis has been less explored. This observation allows discussion of the pathophysiological and clinical aspects of this association, as well as the implications for patient care.

Background: Cutaneous angiosarcoma is a rare aggressive vascular neoplasm with a poor prognosis, seen chiefly in elderly subjects and usually on the scalp or face. The present case is original because of its localization on the leg without any chronic lymphoedema and because of the long survival period. The treatment modalities are discussed., Case Report: An 87-year-old woman presented with a rapidly growing large deep-purple ulcerated tumour on the anterior aspect of the leg. In addition, two nodules with a similar aspect appeared on the outer surface of the foot. Histological examination showed vascular channels lined with atypical cells consistent with a diagnosis of angiosarcoma. Computed tomography revealed no metastases. Amputation was performed at the thigh and there was no recurrence 30 months later., Discussion: The leg is a rare site of cutaneous angiosarcoma. Treatment usually consists of surgical excision with wide margins followed by radiotherapy, but in some cases amputation is unavoidable.

Closed ankle injury without fracture is a common finding in the emergency room. Outcome is generally spontaneously favorable, the injury having no long-term clinical impact. Exceptionally, these injuries can be associated with arterial damage. We report a case of an apparently benign closed ankle injury which was found to be associated with serious arterial damage. Forced dorsal flexion of the ankle joint during a traffic accident caused an arterial lesion without any apparent damage to the bone and joints. The posterior tibial artery was interrupted leading to subacute ischemia of the foot. The diagnosis was established 17 days after trauma. Revascularization could not be achieved and leg amputation was necessary. This case illustrates the difficulties encountered in this type of vascular injury. Most cases in the literature have also involved late diagnosis with often serious clinical impact. Clinicians should be aware of this rare complication of apparently benign ankle injury because of the risk of major loss of function.

Nocardiosis is an uncommon infection, which is exceptionally present as a postoperative event. A case of postoperative pulmonary and cerebro-meningeal infection caused by Nocardia otitidiscaviarum after a leg amputation in a diabetic patient is reported. Diagnosis has been delayed and the clinical, radiological and microbiological causes of this delay are assessed from a quality of care management point of view. Recommendations are proposed regarding physicians' role and optimized microbiological procedures for recognition of slowly growing nocardial strains.

Intramuscular injection of quinine is a mainstay treatment for malaria in children. However it can lead to severe orthopedic complications including sciatic paralysis after intragluteal injection and quadriceps contracture after intraquadricipital injection. This report based on a 98-case series of complications following intramuscular quinine injection that were treated surgically in 88 cases describes clinical findings with special emphasis on the severity. Therapeutic alternatives for these complications are presented and discussed including the use of medial release or double subtalar and midtarsal arthrodesis for correction of foot deformity in function of age. Correction may be associated with anterolateral transposition of the posterior tibialis tendon that is generally not paralyzed. For correction of complications involving the knee, the authors recommend extended proximal quadriceps release that is more invasive but achieves better results than lengthening plasty of the distal quadriceps.

Purpose of the Study: A large body of literature has been devoted to gait analysis in amputees. Most studies have been conducted in the laboratory setting where numerous variables are analyzed: gait efficiency, energy cost, walking velocity. At the present time however, data are lacking on the real-life use of walking prostheses. Little is known about how long patients wear their prosthesis or how difficult it is for them to walk during different periods of the day. Currently, such information depends on the quality of the interview and the patient-physician relationship. A precise assessment of walking activity in amputees and use of prostheses would be a valuable source of information for therapists and would provide complimentary information to that collected from laboratory gait analysis. The purpose of this study was to study walking activity in home-dwelling prosthesis-bearing lower-limb amputees and to determine variables affecting walking performance. To our knowledge, this is the first published study on this topic., Material and Methods: The series included home-dwelling prosthesis-wearing lower-limb amputees (Syme amputation or more proximal) who were able to get up and go without assistance. A StepWatch3 recorder was implanted on the prosthesis for 15 consecutive days. Variables recorded were number of steps, total walking time, and walking velocity. Variables which might affect walking in prosthesis-wearing amputees were also recorded: body mass index, use of a walking aid, level and reason for amputation, age at amputation and at recording, time between amputation and recording., Results: From June 2004 to May 2005, 43 patients wore the StepWatch3 for the scheduled 15 days during their daily activities. Mean age at amputation was 42 years (range 13-78 years) and at recording 52 years (range 25-85 years). Considered separately, gait parameters showed that all of the patients wore their prosthesis daily and that the best walking performance was significantly observed among below-knee amputees who did not use a walking aid and who underwent amputation for a non-vascular cause. Multivariate analysis revealed that above-knee amputees lost 93 minutes of walking time per day (21% loss), and that amputees who used a walking aid lost 58 minutes per day (13% loss). Daily walking time declined 2.5 minutes per year of age. Body mass index was not correlated with total daily walking time but had a direct significant effect on walking velocity.

Recently, regional anaesthesia in children has generated increasing interest. But single injection techniques have a limited duration of postoperative analgesia. Then, continuous peripheral nerve blocks have taken an important position in the anaesthetic arsenal, allowing an effective, safe and prolonged postoperative pain management. As adults, indications for continuous peripheral nerve blocks depend on the analysis of individual benefits/risks ratio. Main indications are intense postoperative pain surgical procedures, with or without postoperative rehabilitation, and complex regional pain syndrome. Contraindications to these procedures are rather similar to those in adults, plus parental and/or children refusal. Continuous peripheral nerve blocks are usually performed under general anaesthesia or sedation in children, and require appropriate equipment in order to decrease the risk of nerve injury. New techniques, such as transcutaneous nerve stimulation or ultrasound guidance, appeared to facilitate nerve and plexus approach identification in paediatric patients. Nevertheless, continuous peripheral nerve block may theoretically mask a compartment syndrome after trauma surgical procedures. Finally, ropivacaine appears to be the most appropriate drug for continuous peripheral nerve blocks in children, requiring low flow rates and concentrations of local anaesthetic. These techniques may facilitate early ambulation by an improved pain management or even postoperative analgesia at home with disposable pumps. One might infer from the current review that excellent pain relief coupled with a reduction of side effects would contribute to improve the quality of life and to decrease the frequency of disabling behavioural modifications in children, sometimes psychologically injured by hospital stay and postoperative pain.

Recent publications have permitted to quantify the benefit of radiotherapy in the conservative treatment of soft tissue sarcoma of the limbs. The aim of this review is to focus on aspects of radiotherapy witch influence local control and functional outcome for early and late normal tissue damage. The evaluation of late effects is performed according to Soma-Lent (Subjective-Objective-Management-Analytic-Late Effects of Normal Tissues) classification. About complications, neurological complications are probably under estimated and are related to total dose of radiation therapy.

Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is associated with a high risk of amputation and death. For patients who cannot be surgically revascularized, medical options include prostanoids, spinal cord stimulation and lumbar sympathectomy, but none of these treatments has a demonstrated impact on the amputation rate at six months. Gene and cell therapy, aimed at stimulating angiogenesis, have mainly been tested in phase I and II clinical trials. These approaches appear to be feasible and safe in the short-term, but large randomized studies are necessary to demonstrate their clinical benefits and long-term safety.

We reported the late thrombosis of a drug-eluting coronary stent related to discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy for venous surgery of the right leg more than half and a year after its implantation. After this acute myocardial infarction, a cardiac assistance device has to be used as a bridge to transplantation because of end stage ischaemic cardiopathy. Antiplatelet therapy management must be revisited for eluting stents, which can clot lately after its implantation.

Leg replantation is generally considered to yield good results, particularly since the widespread use of progressive lengthening procedures. This optimism must be weighted against the very long and difficult operative program, the social and occupational implications, and the functional outcome of the replanted limb. We report a case of below knee leg replantation in a young patient whose operative program lasted 29 months. Occupational activities were interrupted for three years. The clinical result was satisfactory but with 14 degrees residual valgus suggesting a potential risk of osteoarthritis and difficult therapeutic decisions. The alternatives to replantation are controversial. Leg transplantation is not a valid option in our opinion. Amputation with orthesis should be considered more often because complications are rare and recovery much shorter. Indications for leg replantation should be considered with prudence.

Treatment of lymphedema is based upon decongestive physiotherapy including low stretch bandages. We reported 3 cases of huge primary lymphedema of lower limb treated with cutaneous resection after decongestive physiotherapy. Two men and a woman (47, 48, 48 years old) had unilateral right lymphedema which appeared at the age of 38, 38 and 37 years. Patients were hospitalized and treated during 3 to 5 weeks with decongestive physiotherapy and then followed by one (n=2) or two cutaneous (n=1) resections. Lymphedema volume calculated with the method of truncated cones decreased of 32, 38 and 59%. Largest differences between the two calves were 54, 38 and 57 cm before treatment and 17, 9 and 12 cm after treatment. Cutaneous resections on external side of the calf were longitudinal without complications. Lymphedema volume remained stable after 24, 6 and 12 months with two superposed elastic stockings and regular self bandaging.

We report the case of a 38-year-old woman with a necrotizing bacterial skin and soft tissue infection with muscular involvement. The clinical picture was similar to a gaseous gangrene of the right lower limb with a septic shock and multiple organ failure, without predisposing factor such as trauma, and necessitating a hip amputation. The primary site of the disease was a perforated colic adenocarcinoma with peritoneal and retroperitoneal infection. The association of necrotizing skin and soft tissue infection with muscular involvement due to Clostridium septicum to a neoplasma is classical and in front of such an infection a neoplasma should be researched.

Between 2001 and 2003, 30 serratus anterior free flaps have been realized in our unit for reconstruction of lower limb. The flaps were indicated for repair of traumatic soft tissue defect in 19 cases, for chronic wound in six cases, for purpura fulminans in two cases, for pressure sore in one case and after tumor resection in 1 case. There were 29 patients: 25 males and four females. They ranged in age from 5 to 64 years. The size of the soft tissue defects ranged between 15 and 180 cm(2). Four different types of serratus anterior flaps were used: 20 muscle flaps ; four myocutaneous flaps ; five costo-osteomuscular flap ; one costo-osteomyocutaneous flap . In all cases we used osteo flap (8 th rib) in order to restore bone defect, which ranged from 9 to 15 cm. Necrosis occurred in two flaps because of venous thrombosis. The functional outcome was good for all patients and the aesthetic sequelae at the donor site were considered as minor. The serratus anterior flap can be used in many different ways: different kinds of flaps (osteo-cutaneous-muscle); very variable size of flap (15 to 180 cm(2) in our series) , different length of pedicle possible. Because of his versatility and his absence of major functional or aesthetic sequelae the serratus anterior free flap has become day by day our favourite option in limb reconstruction.

For about 15 years, technical advances in prosthetic treatment have been the main factor in the increased performance of athletes with lower-limb amputation. For trans-tibial amputation, the prosthesis for sprinting is composed of a gel liner and a socket joined by a locking or virtual vacuum liner. Because of these dynamic properties, the carbon prosthetic foot equipped with tacks ensures outstanding performance. For trans-femoral amputation, a hydraulic swing and a stance control unit are added to the same prosthesis. In comparison with the able-bodied runner, athletes with amputation have smaller loading times in the prosthetic limb and larger ones in the sound limb. The length of the energy-storing prosthetic foot is determined by the "up-on-the-toes" running gait. The sprinting gait with trans-tibial amputation is almost symmetrical. The hip extensor effort is the main compensation of propulsion reduction with lower-limb amputation. With trans-femoral amputation, the lack of knee increases the asymmetry. The total prosthetic knee extension (early in late-swing phase and lasting during total stance phase) compensates with extension of both hips, especially the opposite one. The amputation and sound limb load transfer with lumbar hyperlordosis concern the pelvis, trunk and shoulders. Because of athletes with amputation, research in prosthetic treatment has progressed. The development of orthotics and prostheses for such athletes has benefited non-athletes with amputation.

Unlabelled: The goal of this retrospective study is to review indications and results of cross over bypasses., Methods and Material: between January 1990 and December 2000, 60 patients (all males with mean age = 60 years) underwent cross over bypass for unilateral iliac occlusive disease: femoro-femoral in 48%, ilio-femoral in 44% and ilio-popliteal in 8%., Results: mortality was 5% while complications occurred in 13.3%. Early limb salvage rate was 92%. During follow-up (mean: 32 months) we noticed 13 late thrombosis. The actuarial patency rate being at 83.5%, 74% and 67% at 1 year, 3 years and 5 years respectively., Conclusion: cross over bypasses are technically simple with low morbidity and acceptable results. In addition to widely accepted indications (general or local unfavourable conditions to approach abdominal aorta), cross over bypasses may be considered as satisfactory challenge even in young patients with how operative risk.

Limb threatening ischemia is a challenge for the vascular surgeon. Recent progress in revascularization procedures allow to minimize the primary amputation rate in the management of chronic critical limb ischemia. The authors discuss the prevalence and causes of chronic critical limb ischemia, with a special interest for diabetic arteriopathy. The technique of crural and pedal vessel revascularization is described, as well as the innovative tourniquet technique for distal bypass surgery. A review of published series of infrapopliteal bypass surgery is made. The experience of the authors during last decade with crural and pedal bypass surgery is analyzed.

The fasciomusculocutaneous flap at the leg (FMC) include a muscle strip in the classic dissection of the fasciocutaneous flap (FC); this muscle survives only by the musculocutaneous vessels perforators. This muscle improves the trophic quality of the classic FC flap and allows him to bring easily muscle to the lower third of the leg and sole of the foot. From october 96 to january 2001, 9 posterior FMC flaps have been used in 9 men, their ages were between 22 and 61-years-old, 8 of these flaps were distally based and 1 was proximally based. The muscle strip came from the medial gastrocnemius muscle, its lengh and its width corresponded to the dimension of this muscle but the depth has never exceeded 10-12 mm. The skin defects have a diameter ranging from 7 to 10 cm and were localised in 3 cases in the sole of the foot, in 5 cases in the lower third of the leg with 1 case of tibial osteomyelitis and in 1 case in the external part of the knee. All these defects were secondary to trauma. No complications were reported with this technique. There was no vascular problems with the muscle strip: its bleeding was checked at the operating room and at 3 weeks when the pedicle was severed. All these patients were hospitalized between 4 and 5 weeks. With an average of 30 months follow-up all the defects covered were very satisfying and the case of the osteomyelitis was healed. There is no functional sequellae and the aesthetic sequellae are those of the classic FC flaps at the leg.