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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
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Lower Limb Biomechanical Analysis of Healthy Participants
Published on: April 15, 2020
Non-traumatic lower limb older amputees: a database survey from a geriatric centre
A Adunsky1, M Wershawski, M Arad
1Department of Geriatric Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Centre, Israel. eadunsky@hotmail.com
Disability and Rehabilitation
|February 24, 2001
Summary
This study on geriatric amputees found poor functional outcomes despite team care. Earlier community referrals and potentially lower amputation levels may improve ambulation and reduce healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Lower limb amputation is a significant procedure in the geriatric population.
- Understanding factors influencing hospital stay and functional outcomes is crucial for this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize geriatric patients admitted for lower limb amputation.
- To identify factors impacting their hospital course and functional recovery.
Main Methods:
- A survey conducted in a tertiary general hospital's geriatric division.
- Involved close collaboration between geriatric and orthopaedic teams.
- Included 241 patients in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Above-knee amputations were common, correlating with advanced age.
- In-hospital mortality was 16%, and systemic complications occurred in 19%.
- Only 33% were discharged home, with 6% receiving prostheses; overall condition remained poor.
Conclusions:
- A multidisciplinary approach yielded suboptimal functional results for geriatric amputees.
- Earlier community referrals may reduce antibiotic use and improve outcomes.
- Lower amputation levels could enhance ambulation potential.
