Introduction
Between 1998 and 2008, 16 adults patients underwent unilateral transtibial amputation and had the distal ends of the tibia and fibula linked using the Ertl bony bridge technique. The patients ranged in age from 18 to 55 years and had a mean postoperative follow-up of 6.8 years.
Purpose
The purpose of the surgery was to (1) create a rigid, stable bone framework; (2) restore the intramedullary bone physiology; and (3) increase the capacity of the distal end of the stump to support the body weight.
Results and discussion
The average soft tissue healing time did not differ from that of the classical procedure. Radiographically, all patients developed proper bony bridges, in an average period of 11 weeks. The technique had excellent functional results, allowing terminal weight bearing without pain.
Conclusion
This technique provides an excellent alternative to other techniques described in the literature.