Bilateral Traumatic Amputations in A Tertiary Health Centre In Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Bilateral amputation refers to the surgical removal of more than one limb, either both lower extremity or both upper extremities. Blood transfusion is often not predictable, however, a correlation between admission PCV and transfusion requirements may provide valuable insight for clinical decision-making in similar cases. Methods: A retrospective review of patients who underwent bilateral amputations following traumatic injuries. The study examined demographic data, mechanisms of injury, clinical interventions, complications, and outcomes. Patient records were comprehensively reviewed for clinical parameters from admission through discharge. Results: The study population comprised of six patients with an equal distribution across age groups (young adults, middle-aged, and elderly). Males constituted 66.7% of cases. Road traffic accidents were the predominant cause (50%), followed by electrical burns (33.3%) and flame burns (16.7%). Bilateral above knee amputation (BKA) was the most common procedure (66.7%). The survival rate was 83.3%, with one mortality. Complications included Surgical Site Infection and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in two cases. Hospital stays ranged from 14-21 days. Blood transfusion was necessary in 66.7% of cases and Pearson correlation coefficient (-0.722) was observed between admission Packed Cell Volume and blood transfusion requirements. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that bilateral amputations predominantly affect males and resulted mainly from road traffic accidents. Despite the severity of injuries, favorable outcomes were achieved in most cases. The findings highlight the importance of early hematological intervention and comprehensive post-operative care. There was a strong negative correlation between admission PCV and blood transfusion requirements.