Patient Requires Amputation After Botched Foot Surgery

Case Overview

This case involves a middle-aged male patient who was admitted for a surgical procedure on his right foot. A sterile compression dressing was applied post-operatively to the patient’s foot. While he was being monitored in the postoperative recovery room, he developed and exhibited signs of decreased blood flow to his foot, assumed to be caused by the compression dressing or some error. The patient developed ischemia to his left second toe, leading to necrosis requiring amputation. His injuries resulted in significant medical care and treatment and caused him pain, suffering, disability and disfigurement.

Questions to the Orthopedic Surgery expert and their responses

Do you routinely treat patients similar to the one described in the case?

In my practice I routinely treat patients such as the one described.

Have you ever had a patient develop the outcome described in the case?

I have been fortunate to not have had a patient develop this outcome in my practice, but I have seen this complication during my training.

What are common complications of applying a compression dressing on a patient, as done in this case?

Common complications of compression dressings can range from mild skin problems to necrosis.

What are the signs and symptoms of a lack of circulation?

The most common signs and symptoms of decreased circulation are a lack of capillary refill, skin changes and pain.

What are the proper follow-up steps to mitigate any further damage to the patient?

The appropriate steps once it's determined that circulation is decreased is to loosen or change the dressings and recheck circulation.

About the expert

This highly qualified expert is a board certified in orthopedic surgeon with years of experience. He completed his residency training at Western Michigan University and Michigan State University and concluded his fellowship training specializing in foot and ankle surgery at Coughlin Clinic. He is a member of multiple professional associations, including the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. He has published 30+ peer-reviewed journal articles and lectures nationwide. Currently, he works as an orthopedic surgeon at a major medical center in Michigan.