Extremity amputation in Nigeria--a review of indications and mortality

Amputation is a common surgical procedure in Nigeria but there are no national data on the subject. The objective was to determine the common indications for amputation in Nigeria, mortality rate, and regional differences in indications. Results of studies on amputation in Nigeria over a 15-year period were collated and analysed. The most frequent indications for amputation were trauma (34%); complication of traditional bonesetting (TBS) (23%); malignant tumours (14.5%); diabetic gangrene (12.3%); infections (5.1%); peripheral artery disease (2.1%); and burns (2.1%). In the southern regions, trauma is the most common indication while complications of traditional bonesetting are the most common in the northern and eastern regions. The average age of the Nigerian amputee is 33 years. Hospital mortality after amputation is 10.9%. The estimated prevalence of extremity amputation in Nigeria is 1.6 per 100,000. Peripheral artery disease is an uncommon indication for amputation in Nigeria while trauma, complication of traditional bonesetting, malignant tumours and diabetic gangrene are relatively much more common. The young male is frequently affected.