Major lower limb amputation: A tertiary hospital experience

Aims and Objective: The objective of this study was to review our 3 years of experience of most common age and cause of amputation, co-morbidities, patient survival, mortality and morbidity associated with amputation. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study includes cases that underwent Major lower extremity amputation between Sept-2015 to Sept-2012 in R.L.J. Hospital. Results: A total of 100 patients underwent major limb amputations during the study period. The patients were aged 24–68 years (mean 42.30 ± 13.72 days). 70 patients were males and females were 30.Complication of diabetes mellitus was the main indication for the major lower limb amputations. Above knee amputation was done in 26 patients and that of below knee is 74 patients. Post-operative complications occurred in 41 patients. There were a total of 6 deaths giving a mortality rate of 6%. Conclusion: Diabetic foot, peripheral vascular disease, trauma and gangrene are the leading indications for amputation in our environment. These are preventable conditions. There is need for government to increase public enlightenment on road safety precautions, establish and equip more trauma centres and specialized diabetic foot clinics. Widespread education of diabetics on foot care and glycaemic controls including regular blood sugar screening for the aging population will reduce the incidence of lower limb amputation.