Contemporary series of morbidity and mortality after lower limb amputation

Abstract

Objectives: This study was performed in order to assess morbidity and mortality associated with major lower extremity amputation according to an extensive complication registration system used in our hospital.

Methods: All consecutive patients who underwent lower limb major extremity amputation were included from January 1996 until December 2002. Complications were prospectively registered according to our standard complication registration system.

Results: In 97 patients 122 amputations were performed including 45 above (AKA) and 77 below (BKA) knee amputations. The conversion rate from below to above knee amputation was 14%. In 65 patients 107 complications occurred (67%). The incidence of wound infection was 10% in the BKA group and 2% in the AKA group. The most frequently reported complications were pressure sores (8%) or originating from the urinary tract (13%). The hospital mortality for BKA was 9% and for AKA 18%. Long-term survival was 62% at 1 year, 50% at 2 years and 29% at 5 years.

Conclusions: An extensive registration system provides us with a detailed insight into the incidence, consequence and cause of complications. Major lower extremity amputations are still associated with considerable morbidity and mortality.