Current trends of major lower limb amputations at a tertiary care center of Jammu, India

AimThe aim of this study is to look for the current and any changing trends in the major lower limb amputations (LLAs) in the developing countries. Background Amputation is the last treatment option in limbs, which are not salvageable or when the diseased limb poses a threat to the life of the patient. Indications of LLA are many, but trauma is the leading cause of major LLA in the developing nations, while as peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and diabetes is the most common indication in developed nations. Material Methods This prospective study was conducted from December 2012 to October 2013 in Government Medical College, Jammu, a tertiary care center of North India. Demographic profile of the patients along with indications, level of amputation, peri-operative complications and additional procedures required in the patients who had major LLAs during the study period were recorded. The date was analyzed by appropriate statistical tests. Results There were 33 major LLAs performed at an average rate of 3 per month. Average age of patients was 43.5 years with 88.87% patients being males. 30.56% amputations were traumatic while as PVD and diabetes was the etiology in 19.44% and 16.67% amputations, respectively. Two patients expired in the post-operative period. Infection of the stump was the most common local complication in the post-operative period. Conclusion Trauma still is the most common cause of LLAs in the developing nations, but amputations for complications of diabetes is on the rise and may be the leading etiology in future.