Non-traumatic lower limb older amputees: a database survey from a geriatric centre

Author: Adunsky A.   Wershawski M.   Arad M.   Heruti R.   Siev-Ner I.   Heim M.  

Publisher: Informa Healthcare

ISSN: 1464-5165

Source: Disability and Rehabilitation, Vol.23, Iss.2, 2001-01, pp. : 80-84

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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this survey was to examine the characteristic of a geriatric population admitted for amputation of a lower limb and to explore some of the factors that may affect the course of their hospital stay.Method: The study took place in the geriatric division of a tertiary general hospital and included a close geriatric-orthopaedic liaison. Two-hundred and forty-one patients were included in the final analysis.Results: Many above knee amputations were performed, which correlated with advanced age. Rates of in hospital mortality and systemic complications were 16% and 19%, respectively. Thirty-three percent of the patients were discharged back home, and only 6% were supplied with an artificial limb. The general condition of most patients remained poor.Conclusion: We conclude that despite a team approach to the care of the geriatric amputee a poor functional result was obtained. By encouraging earlier referrals from the community it is postulated that a reduction in the costly provision of antibiotics would be beneficial and that perhaps lower levels of amputation could be performed thereby enhancing the possibilities for ambulation.