Geriatic lower limb amputations in a tertiary health centre in Southwestern Nigeria: a 5-year retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background: Amputation in the geriatric population is a significant health concern with overmastering implications for individual well-being, healthcare systems, and societal resources. The aim was to review all geriatric patients who had lower limb amputation over a 5-year period. Methods: Retrospective cohort study which examined 54 elderly patients aged 65 years and older who underwent lower limb amputation in a 5year period. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and surgical details were extracted from medical records. Results: The mean age of patients was 73.9 years, with 61.1% between 65-74 years old. There was an equal distribution of males and females. The left lower limb was more commonly affected (53.7%) than the right (44.4%). Diabetic foot was the leading cause of amputation (66.7%), followed by peripheral arterial disease (31.5%). Conclusions: This study highlights the significant impact of diabetes and peripheral arterial disease on lower limb amputations in the elderly population. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions in diabetes management and vascular health to reduce amputation risk. Further research is warranted to investigate the slight predominance of left lower limb amputations and to develop strategies for improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.