Causes and Concerns of Diabetic Subjects with Lower Limb Amputation(s) in Trinidad

Abstract

Aim: This study seeks to examine the major causative factors for lower extremities amputation (LEA) amongst a Trinidadian diabetic patients as well as to analyse the resulting concerns of said patients. Study Setting and Design: This study mainly comprised patients who were subject to or will be subject to lower limb amputations of differing degrees and were selected via a random stratified methodology. Questionnaire used was designed as to attain data on patient medical history as well as intrinsic and opinionated results. Methods: This study comprised 35 patients who were subject to LEAs of differing degrees and these patients were selected via a random stratified methodology. After obtaining informed consent questionnaire were used to attain subjective and objective data as it pertains to the cause and effects of lower limb amputations. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS to test for distribution and correlations. Results: A number of factors were taken into account and measured as it pertained to the cause of having an amputation. Our study noted that the major factors like diet, alcohol consumption and infection became the reason for amputation. Conclusions: The data of this study showed that the patients are to ensure better self-care and preventative lifestyle changes are to be implemented as to prevent the need for amputations.