Consideration for Limb Salvage in Place of Amputation in Complex Tibial Fracture With Neurovascular Injury: A Case Report

Iowa Orthop J. 2023 Dec;43(2):20-24.

Abstract

High-energy tibial fractures often present with associated soft tissue injuries, including neuro-vascular damage, complicating the treatment decision. A 33-year-old male presented with Gustilo Anderson type IIIA fracture of the left distal tibia and fibula with associated closed calcaneus fracture and tibial nerve transection. Amputation was discussed, but the decision was made for limb salvage with nerve allograft. The patient displayed satisfactory functional recovery at 29 months postoperatively without need for major revision, grafting, arthrodesis, or amputation. This case report provides an example of successful limb salvage utilizing tibial nerve allograft in a complex high-energy lower extremity injury. Level of Evidence: IV.

Keywords: limb salvage; lower extremity trauma; neurovascular injury; open tibial fracture; peripheral nerve allograft; tibial nerve injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amputation, Surgical
  • Fibula / injuries
  • Fibula / surgery
  • Fractures, Open* / complications
  • Fractures, Open* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Limb Salvage / adverse effects
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tibia / surgery
  • Tibial Fractures* / diagnostic imaging
  • Tibial Fractures* / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular System Injuries* / surgery