Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
Microscopic Replantation of Penile Glans Amputation Due to Circumcision
Published on: June 3, 2022
A survey on causes of amputation in a 9-year period in Iran
Alia Ayatollahi Mousavi1, A R Saied, Ehsan Heidari
1Orthopedics Department, Kerman Neuroscience Research Center, Dr Bahonar Hospital, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
Insights
Trauma is the leading cause of limb loss in Iran, affecting younger men more frequently. This highlights an urgent need for targeted prevention strategies in the country.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limb loss is a growing global health concern with diverse etiologies.
- Understanding the demographic profile of amputees is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the demographic characteristics of individuals undergoing amputation in a major Iranian city.
- To identify the primary causes and levels of limb loss within this population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on 624 amputees from 2003 to 2011.
- Data collected included patient demographics, amputation etiology, limb, side, and level (minor/major).
Main Results:
- The study identified 624 amputees, with a male predominance (81.4%).
- Trauma was the most common cause of amputation (all types and age groups).
- Major amputations (above wrist/ankle) accounted for 61.9%, with below-knee being the most frequent level.
Conclusions:
- Trauma significantly contributes to limb loss in Iran, differing from trends in developed nations.
- Preventive measures are urgently needed to address the high incidence of trauma-related amputations.
Background:
Limb loss occurs as a result of different causes and has been increasing in many countries. This study determines the demography of amputees in one of the relatively large cities of Iran.
Methods:
This retrospective study was undertaken on all of the amputees between 2003 and 2011. Patients' demographics including age, sex, the limb that had undergone amputation, etiology of limb loss and side and level of amputation were recorded. Also, the level of amputation was recorded as minor (below wrist or ankle) or major (above wrist or ankle).
Results:
In total, 624 patients were enrolled in the study. The number of amputees was from 53 to 118/year. Of the patients, 508 were male (81.4 %) and 118 were female (18.6 %). The men with amputation were younger on average than women; 61.9 % of the amputations (386) were major and 38.1 % were minor (238). Overall, the most common cause of amputation was trauma and the most common level was transmetatarsal. The most common level for major amputations was below knee.
Conclusion:
In contrast to similar studies in developed countries, trauma was found to be the major cause of all types of amputations and in all age groups, which emphasizes the need for preventive measures in the country.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
01:22Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
01:27Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care