Traumatic limb amputations in polytrauma ICU admissions

Authors

Keywords:

trauma, amputation, polytrauma, outcome, mangled limb

Abstract

Background: KwaZulu-Natal bears a significant trauma burden, with polytrauma patients often experiencing traumatic limb amputations. This study investigates traumatic limb amputations in the subgroup of severely injured polytrauma patients admitted to the trauma ICU in KwaZulu-Natal. This study aims to describe the management and outcomes of traumatic limb amputations in polytrauma patients at the trauma ICU.

Methods: This retrospective observational study utilised data from the trauma ICU registry (BCA207/09). Descriptive methods were employed to analyse demographics, injury mechanisms, timing of amputations, anatomical sites affected, injury complexes, injury severity scores, and patient outcomes.

Results: Twenty-three patients were included, with a mean age of 32 years. The most common injury mechanism was motor vehicle collision pedestrian (43%), 82% of included cases underwent early amputation. The left lower leg was the most frequently affected site (62%), with a median injury severity score (ISS) score of 25 (13–42) and median new injury severity score (NISS) of 34 (20–43). Most were ultimately above-knee amputations but started as below-knee amputations. Most patients were discharged to base (60.8%), while 22% died.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into traumatic limb amputations in polytrauma patients, emphasising the need for comprehensive management strategies. The outcomes of traumatic limb amputations require optimised patient care and better rehabilitation services.

Author Biographies

NZS Gumede, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Department of Surgical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

TC Hardcastle, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Department of Surgical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal and Trauma and Burns Service, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, South Africa

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Published

2024-12-04

Issue

Section

Trauma Surgery