title: A modern-day solution to a 100-year-old problem: the use of a Bespoke Off-loading Brace in the rehabilitation of 'Deck-Slap' and other high-energy lower limb injuries.
abstract: 'Deck-Slap' is an injury pattern first described at the Battle of Jutland; it is still relevant today, with anti-vehicle mines a significant threat to Coalition troops. The effect of a device exploding beneath a vehicle produces a wave of high energy that is rapidly transmitted through the steel floor; this causes significant axial loading of lower limbs often resulting in severe fractures (notably of the calcaneum). Recent advancements in orthopaedic surgery have allowed for limbs that were destined for immediate amputation following significant trauma to be salvaged. However, despite intense rehabilitation, many of these salvaged limbs have subsequently gone on to delayed amputation, as functional outcomes are often poor. Technologically advanced prosthetic devices are available that afford good quality of life and allow for increased activity levels; these devices are, however, expensive to procure and maintain. This report describes a United Kingdom (UK) Armed Forces soldier who suffered a typical 'deck-slap' injury in Afghanistan with subsequent limb salvage. The use of the Bespoke Off-loading Brace (BOB) is discussed. The results presented here indicate that the biomechanical function of a patient with this type of injury improves when wearing the BOB. Further studies are needed to assess long-term clinical outcomes and the functional benefit of the device as a viable and cost-effective alternative to delayed limb amputation.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Osborne
authors.forename: H L
authors.initials: HL
authors.lastname: Jarvis
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bennett
authors.forename: R D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Phillip
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001753:Blast Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D001915:Braces; D002111:Calcaneus / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D005684:Gait; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D060051:Occupational Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D016138:Walking