Abstract

Major Lower Extremity Amputation (MLEA) is a life-saving surgical procedure, with diabetes mellitus being the leading factor. This study aims to determine the pattern and indications for amputation in our region and analyze clinical and demographical design. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Victoria Hospital, a Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute component, to analyze patients undergoing major LEA. The study included 132 patients, including 87 patients treated with AKA and 45 patients with BKA. The analysis included demographic information, co-morbidities, amputation level, level of hospitalization, condition at discharge, and history of COVID-19 infection. The study used descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, percentage analysis, mean and standard deviation for categorical variables, and the Chi-square test for qualitative categorical data. Results: A total of 132 patients underwent major lower limb amputation at Victoria Hospital between January and August 2022, with a high prevalence of co-morbid medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, smoking, alcohol, and COVID-19 infection. The most common indication for amputation was diabetic foot, followed by peripheral vascular disease. Patients with diabetic foot were significantly more likely to undergo AKA than BKA (p<0.05). The most common complication encountered was surgical site infection, seen in 53(40.15%) patients. Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus and vascular insufficiency are common indications for non-traumatic limb amputation. Despite advanced endovascular therapy, the number of patients requiring amputation has decreased marginally. Health education, early diagnosis, and follow-up are crucial to prevent complications and ensure patients can lead normal or near-normal lives with timely intervention

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