Lower limb amputations: registration of all lower limb amputations performed at the University Hospital of Trondheim,...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Diabetology

Background:

• Lower limb amputations are a serious complication, particularly for patients with diabetes mellitus and peripheral vascular disease.
• Understanding the incidence and reamputation rates is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the incidence and types of primary lower limb amputations.
• To determine reamputation rates based on underlying diagnoses (diabetes, peripheral vascular disease).
• To compare amputation incidence in diabetic versus non-diabetic populations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of all primary lower limb amputations at the University Hospital of Trondheim (1994-1997).
• Data collection included amputation level, patient demographics, and primary diagnosis.
• Calculation of incidence rates and reamputation rates.

Main Results:

• A total of 215 primary lower limb amputations were recorded.
• Diabetes mellitus (34%) and peripheral vascular disease (53%) were the leading causes.
• Reamputation rates were 19% for diabetic and 20% for peripheral vascular disease patients.
• The annual incidence of amputations was 25 times higher in diabetic subjects compared to non-diabetic subjects.

Conclusions:

• Diabetes mellitus and peripheral vascular disease are major drivers of lower limb amputations.
• Trans-tibial and knee disarticulations showed similar reamputation rates.
• Diabetic individuals face a significantly elevated risk of lower limb amputation.