Outcome of Lower Limb Amputation Performed in General Surgery Department

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of lower extremity amputation at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad for two years. All adult patients who underwent any form of lower limb amputation were included in the study. The data regarding their demographics, risk factors, indications of amputation, type of amputation and outcome was collected from patients on a prescribed proforma and were analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results: There were a total of 73 patients with 45 (61.6%) men and 28 (38.4%) women. The mean age was 57.3±13.7 years. The most common indication for amputation (69.8%) was diabetic foot gangrene. The most common level of amputation (45.2%) was below knee amputation and 21.9% had above knee amputation. The majority (83.6%) were admitted through the emergency department. Hypertension (72.6%) and smoking (46.6%) were the most common risk factors among the participants. The most common comorbidity reported was Diabetes Mellitus (65.8%) followed by Peripheral artery disease (41.1%). Pain and Mobility both improved after amputation.

Conclusion: Lower extremity amputations are done mainly in patients with diabetes and peripheral artery diseases. Diabetes Mellitus, hypertension and PAD were the commonest comorbidities identified among them. Below knee amputation is the most common procedure followed by ray amputation. Postoperative patients have improved mobility and pain relief. In many cases, significant amputations can be avoided with the help of public awareness, education, and prompt health care seeking.