Characterization of diabetic patients submitted to lower limb amputation in Londrina, Paraná State - doi: 10.4025/actascihealthsci.v32i2.7754

Abstract

This is a descriptive study, quantitative analysis of the profile of patients with diabetes mellitus who in 2006 underwent amputation of limbs at a public university hospital. Data were collected from patient medical records, after approval by the Bioethics Committee of the hospital. The results showed that of the 92 patients who underwent amputation, 32% were diabetic. The patients’ ages ranged between 46 and 89 years, and 52% were male. It was found that 93% of patients had diabetic neuropathy, 93% had lower limb ulcers, 52% had gangrene. They remained hospitalized an average of 14 days, and the length of hospital stay varied from 3 to 50 days. Of the amputations performed, 30% involved the thigh, 30% toes, 27.50% upper third of the leg, 5% transmetatarsal region, 5% knee disarticulation and 2.5% calcaneus bone. The increase in amputations is cause for concern for the quality of life of these patients, considering the physical and psychological impact that amputation has on the individual. Furthermore, higher government and institutional costs will be required to assist the health needs of these patients. It was concluded that prevention is the best alternative to reduce this amputation rate and improve the quality of life of diabetics.