The Epidemiological Features of Amputations at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

Abstract:Introduction: While major limb amputations are reported to be a major surgical procedure that is a preventable public health problem, they are associated with profound economic, social and psychological effects on the patient, family and the country at large. There is however, limited data on the epidemiological features of amputations in developing countries where the impact is huge due to poor prosthetic services and unaffordable costs where services are available. The aim of the study was to determine the epidemiological features of amputations done at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. Methods: Data was collected using a checklist. The study was retrospective and descriptive in nature. Convenient sampling was used on records of patients who underwent major limb amputations between 2013 and 2014. Results: Out of 84 records that were reviewed, the commonest indication for amputation was trauma 29.8% (n=25), followed by Diabetic complications 21.4% (n=18) and the prevalent age group was 31-50 years 35.8% (n=30). Men were the most affected (70.2%; n=59) giving a ratio of 2.3:1. Lower limbs were more frequent 75% (n=63) than upper limbs 25% (n=21) ratio 3:1. Above knee amputation was the commonest procedure accounting for 45.2% (n=38) cases. Conclusion: Trauma and diabetes were the common indications for amputations at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia and mostly affected is the productive age group of 31-50 years. Given that both are non-communicable conditions we can conclude that the majority of the amputations could have been prevented with the behaviour change and adherence to traffic regulations by drivers, more road safety education for road users, health education, early presentation and intervention on patients plus appropriate management of the common indications.