[Amputation in geriatric patients]

The incidence of amputation rises dramatically in old age. Trauma and tumors are uncommon reasons in this age group, however; 90% of amputations in such patients are performed for occlusive disease. These patients are distinguished from all other amputees by their multiple morbidity, which must be borne in mind at all stages, from the decision to operate to rehabilitation. This paper briefly indicates the points that are important for an optimal result of rehabilitation, starting with selection of the amputation level and extending through to provision of the prosthesis and mobilization. The paper ends with a presentation and discussion of the results of rehabilitation in 90 patients aged over 70.