Reporting and Management of Equinus Deformity After Partial Foot Amputation: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction Partial foot amputation (PFA) is a common strategy used to preserve limb length for patients requiring lower-limb amputation. Equinus development following PFA results in complications that may be addressed perioperatively or postoperatively. We sought to evaluate how equinus deformity was reported in recent literature related to PFA. If it was reported, we sought to document how it was measured and/or treated. Methods A search of the literature was conducted on February 15, 2023, using PubMed, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) Complete online databases. Studies related to PFA were analyzed following scoping review guidelines. Results Literature from January 1, 2013 to February 15, 2023, were included in the analysis. Twenty-seven studies reported how equinus deformity following PFA was measured, reported, or treated perioperatively, postoperatively, and/or with orthotic or prosthetic intervention. Conclusions Although there is general consistency in reporting practices regarding development of equinus deformity following amputation at the transmetatarsal level, additional research is necessary for the standardization of reporting practices following Lisfranc and Chopart amputations to further inform clinical considerations. Clinical Relevance This scoping review highlights a lack of standardization of reporting practices and orthotic/prosthetic interventions for management of equinus deformity following Lisfranc and Chopart amputations.