Assessing the efficacy of doppler ultrasound in determining the level of amputation amongst diabetic foot patients: a 2-year retrospective study

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot complications leading to amputation represent a significant healthcare burden, particularly in elderly populations. Understanding the patterns, procedures, and outcomes of these amputations is crucial for improving patient care. Methods: A retrospective observational study of 33 patients who underwent diabetic foot amputation was conducted. Data collected included demographic characteristics, clinical parameters, surgical procedures, and outcomes. Doppler ultrasound was requested for all the patients to confirm the level of amputation that had been determined clinically. Results: The mean age was 68.8±8.9 years, with a slight male predominance (51.5%). Most patients (78.8%) belonged to the low socioeconomic class, and 63.6% had only primary education. Below knee amputation was the most common procedure (81.9%), and 66.7% of patients presented with grade 4 diabetic foot. Doppler ultrasound was requested for all patients, but only 18.2% underwent the investigation. Comorbidities were present in 69.7% of cases, with hypertension being the most prevalent (45.5%). The mean HbA1c was 9.742±4.9267. A significant improvement in PCV was observed post-operatively (31.6±4.9% versus 26.3±6.7%, p=0.001). Conclusions: The correlation between Doppler USS and intra-op findings is statistically significant. Doppler USS remains important investigation in determining level of amputation following clinical assessment of diabetic foot patients.