@article{ref1,
title="Quality of life and functionality of patients with heel reconstruction after landmine explosions",
journal="PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation",
year="2013",
author="Tekin, Levent and Zor, Fatih and Akarsu, Selim and Tuncer, Salim Kemal and Oztürk, Sinan and Oztürk, Serdar",
volume="5",
number="7",
pages="591-595",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Landmine injuries cause extensive soft and bony tissue loss of the weight-bearing areas, particularly the heel. Reconstruction of these injuries is challenging, and there are no studies that report long-term functional results. OBJECTIVE: To determine the quality of life and long-term functionality of patients who had heel reconstruction with free muscle flap after landmine injuries. DESIGN: A case-control study. PARTICIPANTS: Nine male patients who had heel reconstruction with free muscle flap. Ten male volunteers without any gait disorder were included in the study as the control group. METHODS AND INTERVENTIONS: Functional ambulation scale, visual analog scale, energy expenditure index, 6-minute walking test, 10-m walking test, and Short Form 36 were performed to determine the quality of life and functionality of the participants. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of functional ambulation scale, energy expenditure index, 6-minute walking test, and 10-m walking test. Regarding Short Form 36 scores, all subgroup values were lower in the reconstruction group, whereas only those of general health, vitality, and physical-emotional role limitation subgroups showed statistical significance. Mean visual analog scale scores were found to be statistically different between the groups (P < .05). Mean Freiburg Ankle scores showed moderate functionality. CONCLUSION: Despite the associated physical and emotional trauma, combat-injured veterans with heel reconstruction after landmine injuries had adequate and functional ambulation at long-term follow-up. Early rehabilitation and close cooperation between surgeons and rehabilitation physicians during the care of these patients will enhance patient outcomes.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1934-1482",
doi="10.1016/j.pmrj.2013.01.013",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2013.01.013"
}