Pattern of Limb Amputations in Male Patients in a Nigerian Teaching Hospital.

Abstract

Introduction: Most amputation surgeries worldwide are carried out in male patients. This negatively affects the socioeconomic fortunes of the individual, family and society especially in places were rehabilitative and prosthetic facilities are lacking. The aim of this study is to highlight the pattern of limb amputation surgeries in male patients in our centre with a view to suggesting possible ways of prevention and improvement in the functionality and quality of life of amputees. Patients and Methods: Case notes of male patients who had amputation surgeries during the study period in the centre were retrieved from the records department and relevant information extracted. The extracted data were analysed accordingly. Results: Sixty three male patients had 69 limb amputation surgeries in the centre during the study period. The mean age of the patients was 48.7 + 20.6 years. The most frequent level of amputation was at below knee level in 46% of cases followed by above knee in 17.4% of cases. The lower limb was involved in 74.5% of cases, the rest 25.5% involving the upper limb. Diabetic foot disease was the commonest indication for amputation in 37.7% of cases followed by trauma in 30.4% of cases. Wound infection was the most frequent post-operative complication occurring in 43.5% of wounds in this study. Conclusion: Limb amputation surgeries frequently involve male patients with diabetic foot disease and trauma ranking as the most common indications here. Preventive measures such education of diabetic patients on foot car and, public enlightenment on accident and trauma prevention strategies will go a long way in reducing the burden of amputation. Making prosthesis available and affordable to amputees is also suggested as a way of improving on the quality of life and functionality of amputees.