Investigating the Etiology of Lower Limb Amputations in East Azarbaijan Hospitals

As we navigate the intricate terrain of lower limb amputation etiology, this article seeks to provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the complexities of this critical healthcare issue. By unraveling the multifaceted factors contributing to lower limb amputations, we aim to contribute to the development of more effective prevention strategies, improved treatment approaches, and enhanced support systems for individuals living with limb loss. This retrospective study was conducted at a single-center and involved patients referred to our orthopaedic department for lower extremity amputation (LEA) during the period spanning January 2007 to December 2019 in East Azarbaijan Hospitals. Data collected included the year of amputation, patient age, gender, level of amputation, and the underlying cause for the amputation. The study encompassed a total of 114 lower extremity amputations, with major amputations accounting for 60.5% of the cases. Notably, the incidence of major amputations exhibited an upward trajectory over the study period, with an annual increase of 0.6 amputations per year. Male patients were significantly more prone to LEA than their female counterparts. Within the patient population of our orthopaedic institution, the etiology of lower extremity amputations demonstrates a multifaceted nature that sets it apart from trends observed in other surgical specialties. Notably, the incidence of major amputations has shown a consistent upward trend over recent years.