Citation

Tekin L, Zor F, Akarsu S, Tuncer SK, Oztürk S, Oztürk S. PM R 2013; 5(7): 591-595.

Affiliation

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Haydarpaşa Training Hospital, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Istanbul, Turkey . Electronic address: leventtekin@yahoo.com.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.pmrj.2013.01.013

PMID

23399298

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Landmine injuries cause extensive soft and bony tissue loss of the weight-bearing areas, particularly the heel. Reconstruction of these injuries is challenging, and there are no studies that report long-term functional results. OBJECTIVE: To determine the quality of life and long-term functionality of patients who had heel reconstruction with free muscle flap after landmine injuries. DESIGN: A case-control study. PARTICIPANTS: Nine male patients who had heel reconstruction with free muscle flap. Ten male volunteers without any gait disorder were included in the study as the control group. METHODS AND INTERVENTIONS: Functional ambulation scale, visual analog scale, energy expenditure index, 6-minute walking test, 10-m walking test, and Short Form 36 were performed to determine the quality of life and functionality of the participants. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of functional ambulation scale, energy expenditure index, 6-minute walking test, and 10-m walking test. Regarding Short Form 36 scores, all subgroup values were lower in the reconstruction group, whereas only those of general health, vitality, and physical-emotional role limitation subgroups showed statistical significance. Mean visual analog scale scores were found to be statistically different between the groups (P < .05). Mean Freiburg Ankle scores showed moderate functionality. CONCLUSION: Despite the associated physical and emotional trauma, combat-injured veterans with heel reconstruction after landmine injuries had adequate and functional ambulation at long-term follow-up. Early rehabilitation and close cooperation between surgeons and rehabilitation physicians during the care of these patients will enhance patient outcomes.

Language: en