Prevalence and Factors Attributed to Lower Limb Amputation at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital in Hoima District, Uganda

Abstract

Background: Lower limb amputation is the complete loss of any part of the lower extremity for any reason. It is one of the oldest and most common surgical procedures, with the earliest known case dating to 31,000 years ago. Despite its prevalence, lower limb amputation remains a significant public health concern globally, with substantial implications for individuals' quality of life.
Methods: To investigate the prevalence, risk factors, outcomes, and management of lower limb amputation, we conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. We collected data from operating room registries, patient medical files, and the physiotherapy department registry. Our study included 60 participants, with a prevalence of 6.7% for lower limb amputation.
Results: We found significant associations between lower limb amputation and age, sex, diabetes mellitus, BMI, and gangrene. We also observed that 25% of cases required re-amputation, and the in-hospital mortality rate was 25%. Half of the cases reported using physiotherapy, while 25% of participants experienced psychological distress. These findings highlight the complex interplay of factors contributing to lower limb amputation and the importance of preventive measures and comprehensive management strategies. We recommend early detection, proactive management of associated risk factors, and holistic rehabilitation to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Conclusion: Our study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology and management of lower limb amputation, informing targeted interventions and healthcare policies aimed at reducing its prevalence and mitigating its impact on affected individuals.