[The value of the Syme amputation in selected cases of diabetic foot].

The aim of this paper was to assess the surgical and functional results of Syme's amputation in patients with infected necrosis of the fore- and midfoot caused by diabetes. The material consisted of 5 patients (4 men) age ranging from 44 to 78 years. No stump healing was achieved in a 44 year old man with arteriosclerosis who did not agree to a higher amputation. Prostheses were implemented in patients whose wounds healed 3-6 weeks after surgery. Follow-up period ranged from 2 to 6 years. Three patients died 4-5.5 years after surgery. One patient (equipped with a prosthesis) was observed for a period of 2 years, after which she gave up further medical care. One patients is doing well and using his prosthesis 6 years after surgery. In selected cases of diabetic foot, the Syme's amputation is a useful method of treatment, both from a surgical and functional aspect.