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Limb amputations in adults in an Ivorian teaching hospital
J B Sié Essoh1, M Kodo, V Djè Bi Djè
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yopougon Teaching Hospital, 21 BP 632 Abidjan 21 Côte d'Ivoire. siessoh@yahoo.com
Insights
Most limb amputations result from trauma or sepsis and are preventable. Early intervention and patient education can significantly reduce amputation rates and associated mortality.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Limb amputations represent a significant surgical burden with high morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding amputation patterns and indications is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiological patterns of limb amputations.
- To identify the primary indications for amputation.
- To assess the preventability of these amputations.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted over an 11-year period.
- Data from 156 patients undergoing 160 limb amputations were analyzed.
- Indications, amputation levels, complications, and mortality were recorded.
Main Results:
- Trauma (49.9%), diabetic foot sepsis (31.4%), and peripheral vascular disease (13%) were the leading causes.
- Below-knee amputations were most frequent (46.9%).
- Wound infection (26.9%) and sepsis-related mortality (16%) were significant concerns.
Conclusions:
- A majority of limb amputations in this setting are preventable.
- Effective prevention strategies include patient education, prompt medical attention, and optimal management of underlying conditions.
Objective:
To determine the pattern of limb amputations and preventable indications.
Design:
Aretrospective study.
Setting:
Department of orthopaedic surgery, Yopougon Teaching Hospital, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.
Patients And Methods:
One hundred fifty-six patients with amputations over a 11-year period were studied. There were 111 men and 45 women with a mean age of 42 years.
Main Outcome Measures:
Indications, level of amputation, morbidity, and mortality.
Results:
A total of 160 limb amputations were performed in the 156 patients. Trauma (49.9%), diabetic foot sepsis (31.4%), and peripheral vascular disease (13%) were the main indications. Below knee (46.9%) and below elbow (11.2%) amputations were the most common procedures performed. Wound infection was the commonest complication occurring in 42 (26.9%) patients. There were 25 (16%) deaths, out of which 22 were due to sepsis.
Conclusion:
Majority of amputations in our environment are preventable by education, early presentation and appropriate management of the common indications.
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