Gait biomechanics following lower extremity trauma: Amputation vs. reconstruction

Gait deficiencies were more pronounced at the ankle following limb reconstruction with orthosis use and at the knee following transtibial amputation with prosthesis use. Although both groups in the cohorts tested can replicate many key aspects of normative gait mechanics, some deficiencies still persist. These results add to the growing body of literature comparing amputation and limb reconstruction and provide information to inform the patient on functional expectations should either procedure be considered.