PATTERNS AND OUTCOMES OF LIMB AMPUTATIONS: A SINGLE-CENTRE RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Despite tremendous medical advancements in limb preservation, limb amputations are still considered a common procedure performed worldwide. This procedure can present distinct challenges, impacting patients’ quality of life both mentally and physically. The aim of our study was to analyze clinical characteristics of amputations and assess the quality of life in these patients. This was a retrospective single center study of patients requiring limb amputations was performed. Patient demographics, clinical data (including underlying diagnosis, level of amputation and type of surgical procedure) and outcomes (including complication and revision rates) were collected. Patient reported outcomes utilizing short form-36 (SF-36) were also documented. Descriptive statistics were analyzed and p < 0 .05 was considered statistically significant. A total number of 268 patients were included in the study with a mean age of 30± 24.7 years. Lower extremity amputations were the most commonly performed, and peripheral vascular disease and diabetes mellitus were the most common underlying cause for amputation. Complications were encountered in 16.8% and 12.3% of patients required a revision. We found a significant association of complication and revision rates with lower extremity amputations and peripheral amputations (phalanx and metacarpal/tarsal amputations). In addition, patients with a complication or revision were found to be significantly older. Type of surgery, level of amputation and gender had no association with complication or revision rates. Concerning SF-36 scores, we found patients scored higher on health change (73±29.7) and lowest in role limitation due to personal or emotional problems (39.6±47). A relatively high rate of complications and revisions was found in patients requiring amputations. This highlights the need for both close post-operative assessment for these patients and a multi-modal approach to amputation care, addressing not only the surgical aspects but also the post-operative rehabilitation and emotional well-being of patients.