Incidence and type of complications following traumatic extremity amputations: preliminary report from a teaching hospital

Abstract

Amputation is one of the oldest surgical procedure and a good amputation results in optimal functional outcome by providing healthy residual limb. Advances in prosthetics has enabled amputee with diverse options and better functionality. There is also decrease in the overall burden of amputation as a result of better treatment of causative disorders and proper limb salvage techniques. Complications, however, pose challenges in regain of necessary functions and include an array of disorders related to the procedure, technique and other factors. An understanding of common and practical complications is helpful in their anticipation and relevant prohibitive measures. Apart from it, a comprehensive study that highlights pattern of amputations and related complications provides database for preventive and management strategy. A total of 69 cases of extremity amputations were included within a defined period of Jan 2011 to June 2016. Relevant demographic data were noted along with other details amputation and complications. An attempt is also made for co-morbidities associated in cases with complications. Males (88.40%) and lower extremity (66.66%) were involved more commonly than females and upper extremity. Below knee was commonest (50.72%) lower and below elbow along with digital amputations were commonest (15.94% each) upper extremity amputations. The significant complication that required increased hospital stay or additional procedures were noted in 34 (49.27%) cases. Delayed wound healing, wound dehiscence, painful neuroma, stiffness, exposed bone and phantom pain were some of major complication noted in the study. A brief notes on patient characteristics has been attributed to the nature of trauma, co-morbidities and substance abuse among the complicated cases. The early recognition of complication and prompt management goes a long way in abetment of agony and discomfort of patient affecting overall outcome.