Utilizing of Removable Rigid Dressing to Decrease Below the Knee Amputations to Above the Knee Amputations Conversion Rates

Abstract

Introduction/Objective Below the knee amputations (BKAs) are preferred to above the knee amputations (AKAs) due to better rehabilitation and functional outcomes. Assessment of literature for best practice identified that utilization of a removable rigid dressing (RRD) improves post-operative BKA care by expediting wound healing and reduces the hospital length of stay compared to a soft dressing. We hypothesized that there would be a decrease of conversions from BKA to AKA following utilizing of RRD device. Methods Retrospective chart review of all BKA performed by the vascular surgery service at a tertiary care hospital between January 2017 and December 2021. Demographic data obtained including age, body mass index (BMI), comorbid conditions, infection at time of BKA, anesthesia type, and operative blood loss. Data analyzed using Wilcoxon rank sum, Fisher’s exact, and Student’s t-tests. This study was approved by the institutional review board. Results From 2017 to 2019, conversion to AKA occurred in 18 out of the 42 patients who underwent BKA (42.86%) within the first 4-week post-operative period. After the standard used of a RRD, 53 patients underwent BKA surgery, with only 4 (7.55%) requiring conversion to AKA within the 4-week post-operative period. Conclusion Utilizing a RRD after BKA can improve wound healing, protect the residual limb, and help prevent conversions to AKA. In this retrospective review at a single institution there was a decrease of conversion from BKA to AKA in a 2-year period. Ridged removal dressings should be considered first-line therapy in the post-operative care of BKA patients.