Health Disparities Across the Spectrum of Amputation Care: A Review of Literature

Limb loss is a common and disabling experience for patients, frequently caused by critical limb ischemia or deterioration of chronic wounds. Disparities in outcomes for prevention of amputation, level of amputation, and postamputation outcomes have been described. Understanding the nature of these disparities and the populations most affected can help clinicians and policymakers target interventions and programs. This article reviews existing literature regarding disparities in amputation care, including prevention methods, surgical outcomes, and postamputation outcomes. The authors identified several potential racial, socioeconomic, and gender disparities, particularly affecting Black, Native American, and Latino/a/x patients, female gender, and those in rural settings.