Background: Charcot osteoarthropathy and osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot syndrome patients belong among the most serious states often indicated to amputation treatment. Target of the work is to consider possible treatment indication of external fixation. Methods: Retrospective study of 5 cases of Charcot osteoarthropathy and osteomyelitis with border indication of high amputation treated in our department using frame external fixation. Results: We reached long-term stabilisation of the disease in all patients with adequate technique and length of fixation and comprehensive treatment. We did not have to perform high amputation. We distinguished pin track irritation as common complication, in one case we observed pin tract infection. Treatment was well tolerated by the patients despite its demanding course and long-term duration. Conclusion: External fixation is often omitted modality in the treatment of Charcot osteoarthropathy and/or osteomyelitis in diabetic foot syndrome. It offers predictable and positive treatment results in thoroughly indicated cases.

        Key words: limb salvage surgery – external fixation – charcot osteoarthropathy – osteomyelitis – diabetes