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Lisfranc fracture and amputation?

Discussion in 'Ask your questions here' started by CamilleDidit, Dec 13, 2012.

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  1. CamilleDidit

    CamilleDidit New Member


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    Hi,

    I am 43 y/o. I sustained a complete Lisfranc fracture (all 5 TMT dislocated & displaced) with 3 metatarsal fractures (with multiple bone chips) and stage III ligament tear between the 4th & 5th metatarsal (and grade 3 high ankle sprain) to my left foot on Thursday, 8/29/12 as I went to get the mail; my right hip locked (whole different story) and I just fell forward. I had a pair of flip-flops on.

    I was told at the ER only about the 3 metatarsal fractures and sprained ankle. I have been in a wheelchair since this happened and have not been allowed to bare any weight on my left leg. I also have to wear the air-boot *all* the time (even while sleeping) and have been in constant, excruciating pain for the most part. I am not even allowed to drive.

    I had my first surgery on 9/6/12. My podiatric surgeon told me that my procedure would take about an hour but it was actually 3 hours 22 minutes long. I had to stay overnight even though it was just supposed to be an Outpatient surgery. I have 15 screws and 2 fusion plates.

    At the appointment before last, I mentioned to my surgeon that the week before I suddenly started having significantly more pain from the middle of my foot to the side (3rd-5th metatarsal area). The subsequent x-rays showed that 2 screws broke but did not move or bend.

    At my last appointment (I see him every 2 weeks), my x-rays revealed that most of my repairs were failing and I have 3 new bone fragments floating around. He suggested that my next surgery be as soon as possible in January 2013. He plans to remove all the hardware, even the fusion plates since they have failed as well. He wants to re-repair what he can, remove the bone fragments and implant an internal bone growth stimulator.

    I had a 2nd opinion on Monday, 12/10/12 and the podiatric surgeon (from a different practice) advised me of the same plan and mentioned that my goal should be saving my foot. My goal after this injury was just walking without a limp or pain. So, I am pretty distraught right now.

    Is it remotely possible that the 2nd podiatric surgeon was suggesting that I could be facing an amputation of some degree??? I didn't say a word after he said this since I was in utter shock.

    Thanks for listening and any information or suggestion will be much appreciated - Camille
     
  2. CamilleDidit

    CamilleDidit New Member

    Well, I received my answer. It is very possible to require an amputation after experiencing a Lisfranc fracture!!!! I have spoke to several patients who were 4-7 years out from their initial injury who have had an amputation because of non-union after recovery.

    I even spoke to a few patients who have supposedly successfully healed from their injury that requested this option due the significant amount of pain it has left them in and then all the arthritis that is almost guaranteed to set in.

    I think I spoke with 18 patients in total and only one had a severe of injury as I did. Some of them had 6-7 surgeries before the amputation.

    This is very discouraging and disheartening but I am afraid it is a very real reality.

    Thanks for listening and I wish everyone the best recovery. - Camille
     
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