Anatomic sites of foot lesions resulting in amputation among diabetics and non-diabetics.
OBJECTIVE
To identify and quantify the anatomic sites of foot lesions resulting in amputation among patients suffering from peripheral arterial disease with and without diabetes mellitus.


METHODS
A retrospective study.


METHODS
Department of Orthopaedic Rehabilitation.


METHODS
A total of 212 recent lower limb amputees with diabetes mellitus (158) or peripheral arterial disease only (54) admitted for prosthetic rehabilitation.


RESULTS
In 62.2% of all amputees the site of lesion that led to amputation was located in the digits. A lesion under the metatarsal heads was reported in 8.0%, along the mid-foot and heel in 8.5%, on the dorsum of the foot in 3.3%, around the ankle joint and lower leg in 5.7%. Finally, 12.3% reported multiple lesions or were unable to recall the exact anatomic location.


CONCLUSIONS
Most foot lesions resulting in amputation are located around the digits. These high-risk sites, therefore, need the patient's and the health care team's special attention. The patient should be trained in self foot examination and meticulous daily care, whereas the role of the health care team is in foot evaluation and provision of protective foot wear.
Isakov
E
E
Department of Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital, Tel-Aviv University Medical School, Ra'anana, Israel.
Budoragin
N
N
Shenhav
S
S
Mendelevich
I
I
Korzets
A
A
Susak
Z
Z
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000534:rehabilitation; D001157:Arterial Occlusive Diseases / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D017719:Diabetic Foot / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D005528:Foot / Q000098:blood supply; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014034:Toes / Q000098:blood supply