Thoughts and experiences on leg amputation among patients with diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Although leg amputation is common among patients with diabetic foot ulcers, only few studies have examined the thoughts regarding legamputation from the perspective of patients. Aim This study aims to explore the thoughts of patients with diabetic foot ulcers regarding leg amputation. Method A qualitative design using semi-structured interviews were used and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Inall five patients participated and the interview questions were focused on thoughtsin relation to a possible leg amputation. Findings Four significant themes were revealed: 1) “Considered—not spoken”—reflections on being alone with one’s thoughts, 2)“What people think about me”—concerns about consequences on socialrelations, 3) “The tough ones and the ones who whine”—considerations aboutexpected self-efficacy and 4) “Limitations andopportunities”—thoughts about physical consequences. Conclusion Even if an amputation is not yet planned, having a diabetic foot ulcer can result in divergent thoughts regarding legamputation. The findings indicate that amputation is considered a taboowhich makes it difficult for the patient to talk about it within either thehealth care context or with relatives. Health care professionals shouldtherefore be aware of how they communicate regarding leg amputation.