A CLINICAL STUDY ON LOWER LIMB AMPUTATION IN SVMC TIRUPATHI.

Introduction: Amputations is the Post graduates first case in the beginning and is one of the most ancient of all surgical procedures done for several indications, including trauma, peripheral vascular disease, tumor, diabetic foot infection and congenital anomalies. 1,2,3 Sometimes limb amputation is considered the last resort when limb salvage is impossible or when the limb is dead or dying, viable but non- functional or endangering the patient's life. 4 Aim of the study is to determine the pattern, indications and short-term complications of major limb amputations in our setting. Methodology: An observational study done retrospectively on 50 cases of amputations in the last one year period in the Department of General Surgery, Sri Venkateswara Medical College, Tirupati. History, clinical examination findings in the case sheets, investigations, management and complications noted in the case sheets were recorded and analyzed for the study purpose. Results: Maximum patients were in age group 41- 50 years and Diabetic Foot Infection was found to be the most common indication for amputation. Below knee amputations were commonly done and revision of stump was done for many cases and infection of the stump was the commonest complication encountered. Conclusion: Complications of diabetic foot ulcers and trauma resulting from road traffic crashes were the most common indications for major limb amputation in our environment. The majority of these indications are potentially preventable through provision of health education, early presentations and adequate treatment of these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]