Circular External Fixation as a Primary or Adjunctive Therapy for the Podoplastic Approach of the Diabetic Charcot Foot

Abstract

Numerous techniques have been described for surgical management of the diabetic Charcot foot. External fixation has become a main surgical tool for the reconstructive foot and ankle surgeon when dealing with the ulcerated diabetic Charcot foot. In the presence of an open wound and/or osteomyelitis, staged reconstruction with circular external fixation becomes ideal for salvage of the diabetic lower extremity. Also, circular external fixation can provide simultaneous compression and stabilization, correct the underlying osseous or soft tissue deformities, and surgically offload the diabetic Charcot foot. This article describes a variety of circular external fixation applications for the diabetic Charcot foot.

Keywords: Charcot neuroarthropathy; Diabetic Charcot foot; Diabetic neuropathy; External fixation; Plastic surgery; Podoplastic approach.