Khaira, H. S., Coddington, T., Drew, A., Roberts, P. N. and Imray, C. (Chris). (1998) Patellar tendon bearing orthosis — application as adjunctive treatment in healing of lower-limb tissue loss. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Vol.16 (No.6). pp. 485-488. ISSN 1078-5884

Abstract

Objectives: to assess the efficacy of the patellar tendon bearing orthosis (PTBO) as adjunctive treatment of patients with significant lower-limb ischaemia and tissue loss complicated by neuropathy. Design, materials and methods: twelve consecutive patients (14 legs) with a variety of underlying conditions causing extensive lower limb tissue loss are described. Seven patients were diabetic. Six patients (seven legs) underwent vascular reconstruction procedures. Chief outcome measures: wound healing and amputation rate. Results: eight patients had ulcer healing within 5 months, one at 18 months (patient with alcoholic neuropathy who was poorly compliant with treatment), one stopped using the PTBO at 3 months and was converted to protective footwear with healing, one died of a myocardial infarct 1 month after the PTBO was fitted (the ulcer was showing signs of healing), and one has just had surgery and been fitted with a PTBO. Conclusions: early results from this anecdotal series are encouraging and a prospective study to determine the application of the PTBO in patients with neuropathic and neuropathic/ischaemic tissue loss is planned.

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