Pattern Of Lower Limb Amputations In Eku

Abstract

Amputation is a psychological, social and economic tragedy for the patient and
his/her family. The lack of rehabilitation facilities in our environment makes the operation a dreaded procedure. This study aims to ascertain the pattern of lower limb amputation in Baptist Medical Center, Eku, with regards to socio biological variables of the patients and indications for surgery. A 5-year retrospective review of all cases of lower limb amputations was done in Baptist Medical Center, Eku, Delta State between January 1st 2001 and December 31st 2005. There were 54 cases available for study; with an age range of 6 to 85
years, mean age of 41.2 + 10.6 years and 72.2% of the cases were males. Below knee amputation constituted 57.4% of the cases and above knee amputation constituted 35.2%, with diabetic foot gangrene being the most common indication for amputation. The pattern of lower limb amputation in Eku is different from what is seen in other parts of the country. Continuing Medical Education for all doctors and health education of the populace in regards to appropriate management of diabetes and lower limb lesions and provision of
facilities for lower limb prosthesis is recommended.

Keywords: Lower limb; amputation; diabetics; trauma; Eku.

Ebonyi Medical Journal Vol. 6 (1) 2007 pp. 18-20