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Management of the Mangled Extremity

  • Trauma Surgery (N. Stassen, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The management of the mangled extremity has undergone significant evolution over the past decades. Understanding these advancements and the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to these injuries is critical to patient outcomes.

Recent Findings

Historically devastating extremity injuries were often subject to amputation. Developments in initial resuscitation and an integrated management of these patients has allowed for the potential of limb salvageability. Prior scoring systems to determine candidacy for salvage have fallen to the wayside with a lack of reliable outcome measures. The early recognition of a multi-disciplinary approach and implementation of an orthoplastic stratagem has permitted abilities of both upper and lower extremity reconstruction. An understanding of institutional limitations and quick recognition of the need for patient transfer to the appropriate facility is paramount.

Summary

Quick resuscitation and engagements of the essential subspecialty groups has shifted the paradigm of management of mangled extremity trauma to utilization of advanced surgical reconstruction potential.

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Data Availability

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References

Recently published papers of particular interest have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville, 653 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA

    Abby C. Sheffield, David J. Ebler & David J. Skarupa

  2. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, C126, 2nd Floor, Ambulatory Care Center, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA

    David Barton & Massimo Max Morandi

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Contributions

AS, DB, DE, MM, and DS all aided in the manuscript preparation and critical review. All authors agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work in ensuring that questions related to the accuracy or integrity of any part of the work are appropriately investigated and resolved.

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Correspondence to David J. Skarupa.

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Sheffield, A.C., Barton, D., Ebler, D.J. et al. Management of the Mangled Extremity. Curr Surg Rep 11, 108–116 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40137-023-00349-w

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