Chopart Amputation
Pronunciation: SHOW-par
A partial-foot amputation at the midtarsal (talonavicular and calcaneocuboid) joint level, retaining the hindfoot, named after French surgeon François Chopart.
Full Definition
A Chopart amputation removes the forefoot and midfoot through the midtarsal joints, preserving the talus and calcaneus. While it retains maximum limb length, it carries a high risk of equinus deformity due to the unopposed pull of the Achilles tendon, which must be addressed surgically or prosthetically. The term is eponymous and must be capitalised. In prosthetic documentation, Chopart-level amputees typically require a custom partial-foot prosthesis with a padded shell that extends to the shin. Editors must not conflate this with Lisfranc amputation, which is at a more distal level, or with Syme amputation, which removes the entire foot.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise 'Chopart' at all times (eponym). Distinguish clearly from Lisfranc amputation in editing; the two are at different anatomical levels and have different prosthetic implications.
In Context
- "The Chopart amputation preserved heel-strike capability but required a custom prosthesis to prevent equinus contracture." — Orthopaedic rehabilitation plan
- "Editors should note that 'Chopart', 'Lisfranc', and 'Syme' are all eponymous amputation levels requiring consistent capitalisation." — Editorial style guide note