Validity of the (WIFI) classification system in predicting the risk of amputation in patients with non healing ulcer

Abstract

Background: Classification systems are powerful tools for health care providers to use when managing patients with threatened limbs. The ability to define and delineate a heterogeneous group into fine-grained cohorts not only aids communication between providers, but also allows for a more accurate analysis of outcomes across treatment strategies. Thus, classification systems are essential for clinical decision making as well as setting meaningful goals and expectations with patients and their families. Aim of the work: To evaluate the predicative ability of this classification in a real world selection at Ain Shams University at period of 1 year depending on the Society for Vascular Surgery, Classification depending on: Wound, Ischemia and Foot Infection (WIFI). Patients and methods: This study included 60 patients with non-healing wound ulcer at Ain Shams University hospitals during year 2017 and 2018. Results: As our study showed WIfI classification was predictive of 1 year limb amputation and wound non healing and correlated significantly with outcomes predicted by the SVS consensus panel. The study showed 1 year amputation rates were 0% for stage 1, 7.7% for stage 2, 18.75% for stage 3 And 64.7% for stage 4. It also showed among the 60 patients studied 15 patients had done amputations where 6.7% were stage 2, 20% were stage 3 and 73.7% were stage 4. Conclusion: WIFI classification can be very useful in predicting the possibility of amputation during 1 year; also the study showed the benefit of using WIFI to plan management of patients presented with foot ulcer.