Multidisciplinary Approach to Midfoot Charcot Neuro-Osteoarthropathy: A Case Series.

Abstract

BackgroundIn Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CNO), deformity-induced ulcers significantly increase the risk of amputation. Reconstructive foot surgery (RFS) is essential to prevent this, but peripheral artery disease (PAD) and diabetes increase complication risks.MethodsAll patients from a single center treated with RFS for midfoot CNO between 2019 and 2023 were included. Treatment followed a multidisciplinary protocol aimed at optimizing 4 factors: hyperglycemia, infection, pressure, and arterial blood flow.ResultsSeventeen patients were included (mean follow-up 20 months). Sixteen patients (94%) achieved an ulcer-free, plantigrade foot. No amputations were performed. Fifteen patients (88%) were diabetic, 67% of whom had elevated HbA_1c levels, and 80% of these normalized after treatment. Four patients had PAD (24%), of whom 2 required revascularization. Deep infections occurred in 4 (24%) cases, and 6 (35%) required additional surgery.ConclusionsUlcer-free and good functional outcomes can be achieved, and amputation prevented, in patients with midfoot CNO provided they are treated by a multidisciplinary team.Level of Evidence:Level IV, case series.