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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology

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01-08-2017 | Original Article • LOWER LIMB - TUMORS

Structural changes in the thigh muscles following trans-femoral amputation

Authors: C. Putz, J. Block, S. Gantz, D. W. W. Heitzmann, T. Dreher, B. Lehner, M. Alimusaj, S. I. Wolf, S. Müller

Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology | Issue 6/2017

Abstract

Introduction

Early ambulation is the principal objective in trans-femoral amputees. Postamputation modifications complicate the rehabilitation process due to a reduced control at the interface between stump and prosthesis. The aim of this study is to determine whether magnetic resonance imaging depicts the amount of fatty degeneration of the thigh muscles after trans-femoral amputation (TFA).

Methods

A total of 12 patients following a TFA on the basis of a bone neoplasm or metastasis with an evaluable postoperative MRI were identified. Using the Goutallier classification, the fatty degeneration of the thigh muscles was analyzed in the middle (M) and at the distal end (E) of the residual limb at T1 (10.6 months) and T2 (25.6 months).

Results

Analysis at two different levels showed different grades of fatty degeneration of thigh muscles after TFA at T1 and T2. Comparing fatty degeneration at both levels of the stump, the quadriceps femoris revealed a significant change (p = 0.01) at T1 and M. sartorius and adductor (p = 0.02) at T2.

Conclusions

MRI is an excellent diagnostic tool to evaluate fatty degeneration after TFA. The highest amount of fatty degeneration of the quadriceps muscle was monitored within the first 10 months. Early physiotherapy is important to strengthen the remaining stump muscles during rehabilitation.

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Title: Structural changes in the thigh muscles following trans-femoral amputation
Authors: C. Putz
J. Block
S. Gantz
D. W. W. Heitzmann
T. Dreher
B. Lehner
M. Alimusaj
S. I. Wolf
S. Müller
Publication date: 01-08-2017
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology / Issue 6/2017
Print ISSN: 1633-8065
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1068
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-017-1929-5

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Structural changes in the thigh muscles following trans-femoral amputation

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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