Use of External Fixator in Achieving Early Osseous Fusion in Boyd’s Amputation of the Ankle – A Review of Two Cases

Abstract

Boyd amputation refers to amputation at the level of the ankle with preservation of the calcaneus and heel pad with consequent fixation of the calcaneus to the tibia. This allows for complete weight bearing and provides stabilization of the heel pad. It is a technically more difficult procedure to perform than the Syme amputation which is a more popular procedure done in ankle disarticulations. The aim of this report is to document our experience with the use of external fixators to achieve osseous union in the management of diabetic foot gangrene. Two cases of diabetic foot gangrene were managed successfully by Boyd’s amputation using external fixators to achieve compression, osseous integration and union. This procedure will be quite useful in developing countries where prosthesis utilization is poor and expensive as obtains in higher level amputations.

Key words: Calcaneus, Disarticulation, Diabetic foot, Gangrene