Functional outcomes of transmetatarsal amputation in the diabetic foot: timing of revascularization, wound healing and ambulatory status

Transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) is an effective surgical approach to treat forefoot infection and gangrene in diabetic patients. However, a high rate of complications and failure to heal require reamputation in a large number of cases. We analysed the outcomes of TMA to define the role of revascularization, wound healing and ambulatory status. From January 2008 to January 2013, 218 diabetic patients with foot infection and gangrene, submitted to TMA associated to revascularization were followed until healing, amputation or death. Revascularization was done in 202 (92 %) cases. In 16 (7 %) no revascularization was required. The TMA was closed in 135 (62 %) and left open in 83 (38 %) cases. The reamputation rate was 34 % and major amputation 12.6 % at 1-year follow-up. Patient following ranged 2-30 months with a mean of 15 months. The functional outcomes, living at home and ambulation outdoors, were 60 and 36 % at hospital discharge after TMA, 81 and 77 % at 1-year follow-up. TMA associated to revascularization can provide an effective limb salvage and functional results in diabetic patients with forefoot tissue loss and infection.