Proper timing of amputation for open fractures of the lower extremities.
Judging the appropriate time for amputating lower extremities with open fractures and major soft tissue damage is a major problem for physicians. Limb salvage through vascular repair and external fixation is frequently unjustified. Attempts at saving a limb that should be amputated often are followed by renal failure, sepsis, and death. Much research remains to be done in this area.
D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000517:prevention & control; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000671:Amputation, Surgical; D005597:Fractures, Open / Q000601:surgery* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000601:surgery* / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D009336:Necrosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018805:Sepsis / Q000517:prevention & control; D013997:Time Factors