Major limb Amputations in a Tertiary Hospital in South Western, Nigeria: Are There Changes in Demographic and Reasons for Amputation Yet?

Abstract

Summary:

Major limb amputations remain one of the common procedures performed in the hospitals to preserve life and/or relief pain. This procedure can lead to major life style changes and is better prevented, whenever possible. Limb complications from Diabetes mellitus and trauma, from road traffic accident, were two major reasons for amputation. There has been a change in the transport policy in Lagos state with a ban on the use of commercial motorcycles plying major roads within the state for some years now. This study was conducted to document any change in the demographics and reasons for amputation after the implementation of the policy. The present results were compared with previously published results from same and other centres within Lagos and around Nigeria. This was a retrospective study that spanned 4(four) years. Medical and theatre records of patients who had major limb amputation within the period were reviewed and data collected. Data analysis was done and results presented. The average age of the one hundred and twenty patients who had major limb amputations was 53.5 ± 18.0 years. The age group 50 – 59 years were mostly affected (33.6%). Male to female ration was 1:1. The commonest reason for amputation was gangrene from diabetic mellitus foot syndrome (59.2%) followed by trauma (11.7%) and peripheral arterial disease (9.2%). Diabetic mellitus foot syndrome remained the major reason for major limb amputation but the frequency of trauma as a reason for amputation has reduced when compared with previously published results.