Abstract

Abstract Background. When there is doubt about perfusion in the distal part of the leg and around the ankle, an above‐knee amputation (AKA) site has been the most commonly selected to assure primary wound healing. Methods. The Gritti‐Stokes amputation (GSA), a modified through‐knee amputation, seems to have value for selected patients, according to a literature review and our success in a small group of patients. We have investigated the proportion of patients who have had AKA and who might have been suitable candidates for GSA. Results. In a retrospective study of 66 patients who had had AKA, at least one third could have been considered for a GSA and might have benefitted from this procedure. This suggests that some consideration should be given to the reintroduction of the Gritti‐Stokes operation. Conclusion. Our expectation is that patients so treated could achieve a high proportion of primary wound healing, an end‐bearing stump, and more rapid rehabilitation than found in patients undergoing the classic AKA.