6533b823fe1ef96bd127f6c2
RESEARCH PRODUCT
Asymmetry of gait after free flap reconstruction of severe tibial fractures with extensive soft-tissue damage.
Paavo V. KomiSirpa Asko-seljavaaraErkki TukiainenHannu KuokkanenHeikki NieminenJarmo Perttunensubject
AdultMalemedicine.medical_specialtyFree flapSurgical FlapsInjury Severity ScoremedicineHumansTibiaGaitAgedOrthodonticsbusiness.industryElectromyographyForefootSoft tissueGeneral MedicineAnatomyRecovery of FunctionMiddle AgedGaitTibial FracturesPlastic surgerymedicine.anatomical_structureFree flap reconstructionFemaleAnklebusinessdescription
Gait patterns of the preferred speed were investigated on 17 patients recovering (9 months-14 years) after reconstruction of severe tibial fractures. A novel data-acquisition system was used to record the plantar pressures as well as electromyographic (EMG) activities during walking. The results indicated incomplete recovery of symmetrical gait patterns. In particular, the duration of the stance phase was shorter on the operated side (mean (SD) 701 (90) ms compared with 765 (128) ms, p < 0.001). The peak pressure points under the foot were different on bilateral comparison, the operated side being regularly higher under the lateral forefoot area. This may imply attempts to reduce the loading of the ankle joint during stance. The pressure distribution models reflected these asymmetrical patterns more specifically than the EMG activities of the lower leg muscles examined.
| year | journal | country | edition | language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000-10-06 | Scandinavian journal of plastic and reconstructive surgery and hand surgery |