A new orthotic device for Chopart amputees.

Abstract

The medical literature has, on the whole, passed seething criticism toward the Chopart foot amputation. The equinous, short, unbalanced stump is prone to pressure injury and the orthopaedic footwear has proved problematic. Many therapeutic modalities have been proposed, such as arthrodeses, tendon transfers, and tenotomies to improve functional ability. Many propose that the results of the Syme amputation are functionally superior and aesthetically more acceptable. The pros and cons of the Syme and Chopart amputations are discussed and a new orthotic device is suggested that improves the function of the Chopart amputation and minimizes the previously described complications.