AMPUTATION REVISION IN AN ASIAN REHABILITATION CENTRE

Abstract

A retrospective study was carried out of amputation revisions performed at Green Pastures Hospital and
Rehabilitation Centre between Jan 1990 and April 2004. The purpose was to determine the reasons for
revision and whether these were preventable, and as well assess the outcome of the revision itself. A total
of 26 revisions were performed; in 18 cases the primary amputation had been performed at another
centre. The primary amputations were due principally to trauma, vascular disease and complications of
leprosy. A poorly formed stump was the most common indication for revision (9), followed by recurrent
ulceration (5) and infection (3). In 16 cases the need for revision was probably preventable. Only one
patient required an amputation at a higher level. Prior to revision only one patient was able to wear a
prosthesis; all but one patient were able to ambulate with their prosthesis following revision in a median
time of eight weeks. Amputation revision in a rehabilitation centre has a high success rate in ambulation
with a low complication rate. Greater attention to detail during the primary amputation will prevent the
need for revision in many cases.

Key Words: Amputation, Revision, Rehabilitation, Complications.