Predictors of Major Lower Extremity Amputation in Type 2 Diabetic Patients With Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A...

Introduction Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a significant complication of diabetes mellitus, often leading to major lower extremity amputation. Identifying predictive factors for amputation can guide interventions to prevent this severe outcome. This study aimed to identify predictors of major lower extremity amputation in type 2 diabetic patients with DFUs. Methodology A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India, involving 101 patients with DFUs. The study assessed the association between various clinical and laboratory predictors and the necessity for major lower extremity amputation. Results Significant predictors for amputation included Wagner's grade ≥ 5, absent peripheral pulsation, clinical evidence of infection, and elevated levels of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of early identification of high-risk patients through detailed clinical assessment and laboratory investigations and underscores the need for aggressive management strategies targeting identified predictors to reduce the risk of major amputation among patients with DFUs.