Major limb amputations in El Obeid hospital, western Sudan

ABSTRACT

To study the causes and pattern of major limb amputations in El Obeid Hospital, Western Sudan. The records of 50 major limb amputations performed in patients admitted to the University Surgical Unit at El Obeid Teaching Hospital, Western Sudan in two years were retrospectively studied. 72% of the victims were males. The mean age was 51 years +/- SD 34.5. 36% of the amputations were emergency procedures. Sepsis, trauma and vascular causes accounted for 40%, 32% and 16% respectively. The upper limb amputations were due to crushed missile injuries, lacerated wounds of animal bites and gangrenous limbs after post-fracture tight splintage by traditional bone setters. The study showed that 96% of the causes were potentially preventable, and that establishment of a Prothetic-Orthotic Centre is needed in this part of the country