Difference In Amputation Rates Research Articles

Identifying Risk Factors for Poor Outcomes Following Popliteal Vascular Injuries

IntroductionPopliteal artery injuries may have amputation rates as high as 20%. This study focuses on identifying risk factors associated with major amputations following popliteal artery injuries in a large single-center cohort. Additionally, we assess the impact of repairing or ligating concomitant popliteal vein injuries. MethodsA retrospective chart review encompassing 2011 to 2023 was conducted at a large urban level 1 trauma center. Patients with popliteal artery injuries were included. Demographics and clinical data were analyzed, and univariate and multivariate evaluations identified significant risk factors for amputation. In patients with concomitant popliteal vein injuries, we compared outcomes between those who underwent popliteal vein repair and ligation. Results188 patients with popliteal artery injuries were identified, 10 underwent index amputation and were excluded. Univariate analysis followed by multivariate analysis revealed that obesity (p= 0.0132) and neurologic deficits on arrival (p=0.0096) were associated with amputation. In the subgroup with popliteal vein injuries (N=93), there was no significant difference in amputation rates between those who had vein repair (p=0.21) and those who underwent ligation (p=0.84) on logistic regression analysis. Likewise, popliteal vein ligation did not impact duration of fasciotomy closure (p=0.20) or skin graft area (p=0.48) based on linear regression analysis. ConclusionOur study suggests that major amputations following popliteal artery injuries are more likely in obese patients with neurologic deficits. It also suggests that venous ligation in cases of concomitant popliteal vein injuries does not significantly impact early limb salvage rate. Further research is needed to determine the optimal approach for managing concomitant popliteal vein injuries.

Co-Morbidity Differences Associated With Long-Term Amputation and Repeat Revascularization Rates After Femoropopliteal Artery Intervention for Intermittent Claudication by Sex, Race, and Ethnicity

BackgroundUse of peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) for intermittent claudication (IC) continues to expand, but there is uncertainty whether baseline demographics, procedural techniques and outcomes differ by sex, race, and ethnicity. ObjectivesExamine amputation and revascularization rates up to 4 years after FP PVI for IC by sex, race, and ethnicity. MethodsPatients undergoing FP PVI for IC during 2016-2020 from the PINC AITM Healthcare Database were analyzed. The primary outcome was any index limb amputation (ILA), assessed by Kaplan-Meier estimate. Secondary outcomes included index limb major amputation, repeat revascularization, and index limb repeat revascularization. Unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression models. ResultsThis study included 19,324 patients with IC who underwent FP PVI with 41.2% women, 15.6% Black patients, and 4.7% Hispanic patients. Women were less likely than men to be treated with atherectomy (45.1% vs. 47.8%, p=0.0003), Black patients were more likely than White patients to receive atherectomy (50.7% vs. 44.9%, p<0.001), and Hispanic patients were less likely to receive atherectomy than non-Hispanic patients (41% vs. 47%, p=0.0004). Unadjusted rates of any amputation were similar between men and women (6.4% for each group, logrank p=0.842), higher among Black patients than. White patients (7.8% vs. 6.1%, logrank p = 0.007) and higher among Hispanic patients than non-Hispanic patients (8.8% vs. 6.3%, logrank p=0.031). After adjustment for baseline characteristics, Black race was associated with higher rates of repeat revascularization (adjusted HR=1.13; 95% CI:1.04, 1.22) and any femoropopliteal revascularization (adjusted HR=1.10; 95% CI:1.01,1.20). No statistical difference in amputation rate was observed between comparison groups. ConclusionWomen and men with intermittent claudication had similar crude and adjusted amputation and revascularization outcomes after FP PVI. Black patients had higher repeat revascularization and any FP revascularization rates than White patients. Black and Hispanic patients had higher crude amputation rates, but these differences were attenuated by adjustment for baseline characteristics. Black patients were more likely to receive atherectomy and had higher rates of any repeat revascularization and specifically FP revascularization. Further study is necessary to determine whether these patterns are related to disease-specific issues or practice-pattern differences between different populations.

The Efficacy of Diabetic Foot Treatment in a "TOSF" Pattern: A Five-Year Retrospective Study.

To evaluate the advantages and problems in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic foot (DF) patients by analyzing the results of a 5-year follow-up of the organ system based (TOSF) treatment model. A retrospective study was conducted in 229 patients with diabetic foot. Chi-square test and rank-sum test were used to analyze the effects of patients' general condition, behavioral and nutritional status, degree of infection (inflammatory markers), comorbidity, diabetic foot grade/classification, and revascularization on readmission rate, amputation rate, all-cause mortality, incidence of other complications, and wound healing time. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors affecting the prognosis of diabetic foot. Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to analyze the differences in amputation rate and mortality rate at each time point. This study showed that nutritional status, degree of infection, and revascularization influenced readmission rates. General condition, behavior and nutritional status, degree of infection, Wagner grade and revascularization affect the amputation rate. General conditions, behavioral and nutritional status, degree of infection, comorbidities, classification and revascularization affect the mortality of patients. Age and white blood cell(WBC) count affected the incidence of other complications. Influence of infection degree and Wagner grade and revascularization in patients with wound healing time. Revascularization was an independent protective factor for readmission, amputation, and mortality.Elevated serum inflammatory markers are an independent risk factor for amputation. Hypoproteinemia is an independent risk factor for mortality. In the "TOSF" diagnosis and treatment pattern, diabetic foot patients have a good prognosis. Special attention should be paid to the screening and revascularization of lower extremity vascular disease in patients with diabetic foot.

Analysis of Oklahoma amputation trends and identification of risk factors to target areas for limb preservation interventions

ObjectiveAnnual trends of lower extremity amputation due to end-stage chronic disease are on the rise in the United States. These amputations are leading to massive expenses for patients and the medical system. In Oklahoma, we have a high-risk population because access to care is low, the number of uninsured is high, cardiovascular health is poor, and our overall health care performance is ranked 50th in the country. But we know little about Oklahomans and their risk of limb loss. It is, therefore, imperative to look closely at this population to discover contemporary rates, trends, and state-specific risk factors for amputation due to diabetes and/or peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We hypothesize that state-specific groups will be identified as having the highest risk for limb loss and that contemporary trends in amputations are rising. To create implementable solutions to limb preservation, a baseline must be set. MethodsWe conducted a 12-consecutive-year observational study using Oklahoma’s hospital discharge data. Discharges among patients 20 years or older with a primary or secondary diagnosis of diabetes and/or PAD were included. Diagnoses and amputation procedures were identified using International Classification of Disease-9 and -10 codes. Amputation rates were calculated per 1000 discharges. Trends in amputation rates were measured by annual percentage changes (APC). Prevalence ratios evaluated the differences in amputation rates across demographic groups. ResultsOver 5,000,000 discharges were identified from 2008 to 2019. Twenty-four percent had a diagnosis of diabetes and/or PAD. The overall amputation rate was 12 per 1000 discharges for those with diabetes and/or PAD. Diabetes and/or PAD-related amputation rates increased from 8.1 to 16.2 (APC, 6.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.7-7.3). Most amputations were minor (59.5%), and although minor, increased at a faster rate compared with major amputations (minor amputation APC, 8.1; 95% CI, 6.7-9.6 vs major amputation APC, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.5-4.7); major amputations were notable in that they were significantly increasing. Amputation rates were the highest among males (16.7), American Indians (19.2), uninsured (21.2), non-married patients (12.7), and patients between 45 and 49 years of age (18.8), and calculated prevalence ratios for each were significant (P = .001) when compared within their respective category. ConclusionsAmputation rates in Oklahoma have nearly doubled in 12 years, with both major and minor amputations significantly increasing. This study describes a worsening trend, underscoring that amputations due to chronic disease is an urgent statewide health care problem. We also present imperative examples of amputation health care disparities. By defining these state-specific areas and populations at risk, we have identified areas to pursue and improve care. These distinctive risk factors will help to frame a statewide limb preservation intervention.

The Effect of Limb Salvage Efforts in Different Age Groups: Relationships Between Major and Minor Amputations

“Limb salvage” efforts, such as performing minor amputations before infections spread proximally from the foot to decrease major lower extremity amputation, are an important part of healthcare today. It is unclear whether these efforts are preventing the number of major amputations and improving patients’ quality of life and the cost-effectiveness of the U.S. healthcare system. Rates of non-traumatic lower extremity amputation (NLEA) among patients with diabetes decreased in the early 2000s but rebounded in the 2010s. We analyzed the proportion of major amputations and differences in amputation rates between age groups in Texas. Patient data was extracted from the Texas Hospital Discharge Data Public Use Data File. Population estimates were obtained from the Texas Population Estimates Program from 2011 to 2015 and from intercensal estimates provided by the U.S. Census Bureau from 2006 to 2010. Raw numbers of minor, major, and all NLEA surgeries and the ratio of major amputations to total amputations per year were reported for each age group. Poisson regression and Joinpoint analyses were performed to capture these changes in trends. Rates of amputations increased, with significant decreasing relative prevalence of major amputations. Patients aged 45 to 64 with diabetes are likely driving these increases. Rates of lower extremity amputation in patients with diabetes increased from 2009 to 2015. This holds for all and minor amputations. In contrast, the ratio of major to all amputations decreased from 2010. Utilization of major and minor amputation differs between age groups, remaining stable in the youngest subjects, with minor amputation rates increasing in those aged 45 to 64.

Effect of Combination of Temporary Vascular Shunt and Prophylactic Fasciotomy on Limb Salvage after Lower Extremity Arterial Injuries among Yemeni Patients with War-Related Polytrauma

Context and Aim: In cases of severe lower extremity arterial injuries (LEAI), such as those resulting from combatrelated injuries, the preservation of the affected limb is a significant challenge. The combination of a temporary vascular shunt (TVS) and prophylactic fasciotomy (PF) has emerged as a potential approach to improving limb salvage outcomes in these cases. In the context of the war in Yemen, we aimed to assess the effect of combination TVS and PF on limb salvage after LEAI in patients with war-related polytrauma (WRPT). Patients and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among patients with WRPT at Al Hazm Hospital in Al Jawf Governorate in northeastern Yemen. Cases identified as polytrauma with LEAI in which PF was used comprise the study. These cases were matched to patients, or a control group, injured during the same period having polytrauma with LEAI requiring major vascular intervention but managed without fasciotomy. The primary outcome was surgical amputation. Results: Inclusion criteria were met in 39 cases, 18 (46.2%) had undergone fasciotomy, while the other 21 (53.8%) did not. Both study groups were entirely young (mean age 26.32 ± 5.01 years) males (100%). The overall amputation rate was 17.9% (7 of 39 cases), with 6 (28.57%) cases in the non-fasciotomy group and 1 (5.55%) case in the fasciotomy group. The difference in amputation rate was not statistically significant (p-value, 0.071). Likewise, the mechanism of injury, clinical findings on admission, arterial injuries, and types of surgical procedures were similar in both groups. By contrast, the fasciotomy group had a lower rate of limb infection than their non-fasciotomy counterpart (38.1% vs. 5.6%, respectively). The mortality rate in the hospital was 5.1% (2 of 39 cases), and all of them did not undergo fasciotomies. Conclusion: The combination of TVS and PF was associated with significantly improved limb infection. While statistically unproven, this combination may also enhance limb salvage. Therefore, it should be performed in cases of WRPT.

Autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells in the treatment of chronic limb-threatening ischaemia: a proof-of-concept trial

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): 1. Iniciativa Andaluza en Terapias Avanzadas 2. Fundación Progreso y Salud Background Chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI) is a debilitating condition often leading to gangrene which necessitates amputation. Endovascular or surgical interventions remain the standard treatment, however, not all patients are suitable for such procedures. The aim of cell-based therapies is to harvest progenitor cells either from the patient (i.e., autologous) or other sources and re-administer them at a higher concentration near/at the ischemic site(s) to potentiate vasculogenesis. Aim The objective of this trial was to assess the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of treating CLTI with autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNC). Methods This multicentre, phase II, open-label, randomized clinical trial conducted between 2009 and 2011 consisted of adult diabetic patients with CLTI Rutherford grade II or III of at least one lower limb who were not suitable for surgical revascularization. Sixty eligible patients were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups (1x108, or 5x108, or 1x109 BM-MNCs) or to the control group (standard of care treatment). The cell-product was prepared from the baseline bone marrow aspirate of the treated patients and injected intra-arterially proximal to the vessel occlusion under general anaesthesia &amp;lt;72 hours after bone marrow aspiration. The control patients did not undergo bone marrow aspiration. Ulcer healing and amputation variables were evaluated in all patients at baseline and months 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12. Results The sample demographics were similar in each arm. A total of 50 males and 10 females were enrolled into the trial, with mean age of 63.9 (SD=9.4) years, and mean body mass index of 27.8 Kg/m2 (SD=4.1). The average years living with diabetes was 18.6 years, and time since diagnosis of CLTI was 0.78 years (SD: 1.12 years). A clinically meaningful treatment effect was observable at 6 months, and at 12 months baseline ulcers in 75% of treated patients were completely healed, compared to 14% of control patients (P=0.0142). Furthermore, the ulcers of the treated patients were on average 19.66 mm smaller than those of the control patients (P&amp;lt;0.0001). These results corresponded to angiographical outcomes where vasculogenesis was observed in approximately half of the treated patients who improved in Rutherford Grade. There were no differences in amputation rates across arms. No pertinent covariates which might have impacted the outcomes were identified. No treatment-associated adverse events occurred in the trial. Conclusion Autologous BM-MNC is an effective therapeutic alternative in patients unsuitable for surgical or endovascular revascularization.

Impact of “Defensive Medicine” on the Costs of Diabetes and Associated Conditions

Geographic variation in health care spending is typically attributed to differences in patient health status and provider practice patterns. While medicolegal considerations (i.e., "defensive medicine") anecdotally impact health care spending, this phenomenon is difficult to measure. The purpose of this study was to explore the association between the medicolegal environment and Medicare costs for diabetes and associated conditions of interest to vascular surgeons. Specifically, we hypothesized that an adverse medicolegal environment is associated with higher per capita Medicare costs for diabetic patients. Medicare data including the most recent (2018) Medicare Geographic Variation Public Use Files and Chronic Conditions Data Files were linked to National Practitioner Data Bank files from the preceding 5years (2013-2017), in addition to the US census data and American Medical Association workforce statistics. The state-level medicolegal environment was characterized by K-means clustering across a panel of metrics related to malpractice payment magnitude and prevalence. Per capita Medicare spending for diabetes was compared across 5 distinct medicolegal environments. Costs were standardized and risk-adjusted to account for known geographic variation in health care costs and patient population. Analysis of variance was applied to unadjusted data, followed by multivariate regression modeling. Readmission rates, per capita imaging studies, per capita tests, per capita procedures, and lower extremity amputation rates were compared between the least litigious quintile from the K-means clustering and the 2 most litigious quintiles. The median unadjusted Medicare per capita expenditure on diabetic patients was $15,963 ($14,885-$17,673), ranging from $13,762 (Iowa) to $21,865 (D.C.). A 1.6-fold variation persisted after payment standardization. Cluster analysis based on malpractice-related variables yields 5 distinct medicolegal environments, based on litigation frequency and malpractice payment amounts. Per capita spending on diabetes varied, ranging from $15,799 in states with low payments and infrequent litigation to $18,838 in states with the most adverse medicolegal environment (P<0.05). After cost standardization and risk adjustment with multiple linear regression, malpractice claim prevalence (per 100 physicians) remained an independent predictor of states with the highest diabetes mellitus spending (P=0.022). Moreover, diabetic patients in states with adverse medicolegal environments had more procedures, imaging studies, and readmissions (P<0.05 for all) but did not have significant differences in amputation rates compared to less litigious states. An adverse medicolegal environment is independently associated with higher health care costs but does not result in improved outcome (i.e. amputation rate) for diabetic Medicare beneficiaries. Across states, a 1% increase in lawsuits/100 physicians was associated with a >10% increase in risk-adjusted standardized per capita costs. These findings demonstrate the potential contribution of "defensive medicine" to variation in health care utilization and spending in a population of interest to vascular surgeons.

Impact of Hemodialysis on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Lower Extremity Bypass Surgery for Peripheral Artery Disease-10-year Follow-Up Study.

We investigated the clinical impact of hemodialysis on long-term outcomes of bypass surgery in patients with peripheral artery disease. We evaluated 660 consecutive patients who underwent successful bypass surgery (392 hemodialysis and 268 non-hemodialysis). The endpoint was amputation-free survival (AFS). To minimize differences in clinical characteristics between the 2 groups, propensity score matching was performed. The AFS rates for 10-year follow-up were 39.3% and 67.7% in hemodialysis and non-hemodialysis patients [hazard ratio (HR) 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.65-3.01, P < .0001]. Cumulative incidence of amputation was higher in the hemodialysis group than in the non-hemodialysis group [(19.4 vs 8.4%, HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.29-3.74, P = .0027). In a matched cohort (n = 210 each), AFS was still lower in the hemodialysis patients (53.1 vs 66.3%, HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.36-2.82, P = .0003). However, there was no significant difference in amputation rate between the groups (10.5 vs 10.6%, HR .97, 95% CI 0.49-1.87, P = .93). In a sub-analysis of patients with critical limb ischemia, similar results were obtained. The 10-year AFS was consistently lower in the hemodialysis group than in the non-hemodialysis group. However, the amputation rate was comparable between the groups when matched for the differences in clinical characteristics.

Risk of lower extremity amputations in patients with type 2 diabetes using sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors

AimsTo compare the influence of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) on the risk of lower extremity amputations in patients with type 2 diabetes in Slovenia.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included patients aged 40 years or more who were administered a newly introduced SGLT2i or DPP-4i between June 2014 and June 2018. Patients treated with insulin at baseline and patients with a history of amputation were excluded. Patients were matched in a 1:1 ratio using propensity score matching. Survival analysis was performed; hazard ratio (HR) and ratios of cumulative hazards at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were estimated. On-treatment and intention-to-treat approaches were used.ResultsThe study cohort (mean age: 64 years) consisted of 2,939 new users of SGLT2i (empagliflozin, 59%; dapagliflozin, 41%) matched to 2,939 new users of DPP-4i. In the on-treatment analysis (median follow-up of 2 years), the incidence of amputations was higher in SGLT2i than in DPP-4i users (4.2 vs. 2.7 per 1,000 patient years), resulting in a HR of 1.58 (95% CI 0.85–2.92; p = 0.145). An intention-to-treat analysis yielded to similar HR of 1.86 (95% CI: 1.10–3.14; p = 0.020). There was no difference in amputation rates in the first two years, but SGLT2i users had a 2.81-fold higher (95% CI: 1.63–4.84; p = 0.007) cumulative hazard of amputation at 4 years than did DPP-4i users.ConclusionsCompared with DPP-4i use, SGLT2i use did not result in a statistically significant higher overall risk of lower extremity amputations. However, the results suggest that SGLT2i may increase the risk of amputation with long-term use.

Management of open fractures of the lower limb during the COVID-19 pandemic: are the standards of treatment being maintained? A study from a major trauma centre in England

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) has created an immense strain on the NHS. During the height of the pandemic, trauma services were affected by redeployment, reduced theatre capacity and staff illness, and COVID BOAST guidelines were introduced.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the standards of management of open fractures of the lower limb at a Major Trauma Centre in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic and compare the same with the pre-pandemic period. Patient demographics, mechanism of injury, timing and mechanism of initial debridement and definitive soft tissue and skeletal fixation were noted. Outcomes including duration of hospital stay, 30 day and 1 year mortality were also assessed.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results: &lt;/strong&gt;There was an overall 21% reduction in admissions with open lower limb fractures during the pandemic period with a 48% reduction during the first lockdown. There was a significant reduction in time taken from Emergency Department presentation to first debridement as well as a notable increase in operating outside of regular theatre hours. There was little difference in operative technique used for skeletal or soft tissue management at initial and definitive surgery, though fewer cases were performed as a two stage procedure. There was no difference in amputation rate in the two years. Length of stay was reduced from 21 days to 17, and 30 day mortality remained the same.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Our study shows this Major Trauma Centre was able to provide a trauma service in accordance to the BOAST4 guidelines despite the increased pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic.&lt;/p&gt;

Treatment of severe diabetic foot ulcer using tibia transverse transport combined with nose ring drain

To investigate the effectiveness of tibial transverse transport (TTT) combined with nose ring drain (NRD) in the treatment of severe diabetic foot ulcer. The clinical data of 60 patients with severe diabetic foot (Wagner grade 3 or 4) ulcer who were admitted between April 2017 and August 2020 and met the selection criteria were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 30 cases were treated with TTT combined with NRD (TTT+NRD group), and 30 cases were treated with TTT (TTT group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, diabetes duration, preoperative glycated hemoglobin, comorbidities, wound area, and duration, side, and grade of diabetic foot ( P>0.05). The wound healing time, wound healing rate, amputation rate, recurrence rate, duration of antibiotic therapy, hospital stay, number of hospitalizations, and number of operations were recoreded and compared between the two groups. No obvious surgical complications occurred in the two groups. Patients in both groups were followed up 3-13 months, with an average of 5.7 months. The duration of antibiotic therapy and hospital stay in the TTT+NRD group were significantly shorter than those in the TTT group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in wound healing time, wound healing rate, number of hospitalizations, and number of operations between the two groups ( P>0.05). During follow-up, there was no recurrence of ulcer in the TTT+NRD group while 2 recurrent cases (6.7%) in the TTT group. The difference in recurrence rate was not significant ( P=0.492). One case (3.3%) in the TTT+NRD group underwent amputation due to acute lower extremity vascular embolism, and 1 case (3.3%) in the TTT group underwent amputation due to secondary necrosis. The difference in amputation rate was not significant between the two groups ( P=1.000). TTT combined with NRD is an effective method for the treatment of severe diabetic foot ulcers with deep infections or relatively closed cavities or sinuses. It can shorten the time of antibiotic use and the length of hospitalization; and the NRD has a good drainage effect without obvious comorbidities, procedure and the postoperative care are simple and easy to obtain materials.

Clinical outcomes among patients with chronic kidney disease hospitalized with diabetic foot disorders: A nationwide retrospective study.

IntroductionDiabetic foot ulcerations or infections (DFUs/DFIs) are common complications of patients with diabetes. This study aimed to explore the impact of non‐dialysis and dialysis CKD on hospitalized patients with DFUs/DFIs.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Inpatient Sample database for the years 2017 and 2018. Patients hospitalized for DFUs/DFIs were included in the study. The primary outcome was lower limb amputations. The secondary outcomes were inpatient mortality, sepsis, length of stay (LOS), total hospitalization charges (THC) and disposition.ResultsA total of 121,815 hospitalizations were included (26.1% non‐dialysis CKD; 8.4% dialysis CKD). There was no significant difference in amputation rates between those on non‐dialysis CKD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87–1.06) and dialysis CKD (aOR: 1.04, [95% CI: 0.91–1.12]) when compared to non‐CKD group. Dialysis CKD group had increased odds of undergoing major amputation (aOR: 1.74, [95% CI: 1.32–2.29]), in‐hospital mortality (aOR: 3.77 [95% CI: 1.94–7.31]), sepsis (aOR: 1.83 [95% CI: 1.27–2.62]), longer LOS (adjusted mean difference [aMD]: 1.46 [95 CI: 1.12–1.80) and higher THC (adjusted mean difference [aMD]: $20,148 [95% CI: $15,968‐$24,327]). Non‐dialysis CKD group had increased odds of sepsis (aOR: 1.36 [95% CI: 1.02–1.82]), less likely to be discharged home (aOR: 0.87 [95% CI: 0.80–0.95]), longer LOS (aMD: 0.91 [95% CI 0.69–1.13]) and higher THC (aMD: $20,148 [95% CI: $15,968–$24,327]).ConclusionPatients with CKD on dialysis had higher odds of undergoing major amputation. CKD increased the odds of in‐hospital morbidity and resource utilization, with the most significant is for those on dialysis.

Outcome of Femoral-popliteal Bypass Procedures in Different Ethnic Groups in England: A Retrospective Analysis of Hospital Episode Statistics

Previous studies, mainly from the United States, have reported worse outcomes from lower limb bypass procedures in ethnic minority populations. Limited nationwide data are available from ethnic minority populations from Europe. The aim of this study is to investigate outcomes from lower limb bypass procedures in ethnic minorities from England. We enquired the "Hospital Episode Statistics" database, using ICD-10 codes to identify all cases of femoral-popliteal bypass operations from English NHS Hospitals from 01/01/2006 to 31/12/2015. Every case was followed up for 2 years for subsequent events. The primary outcomes were mortality and major leg amputation. Patients were broadly categorised according to Black, Asian and White ethnicity. Chi-square test was used to the ethnic groups and odds ratios (OR) were calculated using White ethnic group with the largest numbers of participants as a reference category. In the examined 10-year period, 20825 femoral-popliteal bypass procedures (250 of Black, 167 of Asian, and 20.408 of White ethnicity) were recorded. Thirty-day and 2-year mortality were 2.8% and 16.8% with no significant ethnic differences. Patients of Black ethnicity had higher risk of limb loss compared to Whites (23.2% vs. 15.6%, OR = 1.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21-2.19, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in amputation rates between Asians and Whites (16.2% vs.. 15.6%, P = 0.94). Patients of Black ethnicity are at higher risk of limb loss after a femoropopliteal bypass procedure. Further research is needed to identify the causes of this discrepancy.

Study of clinical pattern of limb loss in electrical burn injuries

Introduction: Electrical burn injuries are devastating and cause not only loss of life but also severe disabilities in the form of limb loss. Increase in urbanization, industrialization and overcrowding has led to an increase in electric injuries. Material and methods: The study was prospective in nature evaluating electric burns and studied the pattern of limb loss for a duration of 18 months from October 2016 to March 2018. Parameters recorded were demographic data, clinical data regarding the electrical injuries, complications, and outcomes. Results: Male patients made up 85.3% of cases. Mean TBSA was 24.76 ± 19.18%. Mean age was 27.59 ± 13.73 years. Pediatric patients made up 17%. High voltage burns constituted 68.2 %. Electric contact burn was the most common type making up 49.5% of cases. The most common cause was occupational (38.9%). A fasciotomy was required in 22% of cases with an amputation rate of 38% (209 out of 550). There were 190 major amputations and 106 minor amputations. Overall, the right upper limb amputations were twice as common as the left. The ratio of upper limb: lower limb amputation was 4:1. Fifty patients (23.9%) required revision amputation. The age group 11 to 30 years made up 55.5% of amputations. There was no statistical difference in amputation rates between males (31.31%) and females (41.97%). In patients with TBSA less than 25% amputation rate was 47.77% as compared to patients with more than 25% TBSA, 19.47% (p<0.001). Most amputations occurred due to electric contact burns (74.16%). In the high voltage group, 46.1% underwent amputation vs low voltage group -20.6% (p<0.001). Overall mortality rate was 12.7%. Three hundred patients (55%) had low level of awareness regarding consequences of electric injury. Thirty one percent had medium level of awareness and only 14 % had high level of awareness. There was a significant correlation between education level and awareness in adult patients (p<0.001). Seventy percent of persons with occupational injuries used only footwear and no other protective equipment. Conclusion: Increasing public awareness, safety measures at workplaces are measures that will help reducing electrical burns which reduce limb and life loss.

Hard signs gone soft: A critical evaluation of presenting signs of extremity vascular injury.

Despite advances in management of extremity vascular injuries, "hard signs" remain the primary criterion to determine need for imaging and urgency of exploration. We propose that hard signs are outdated and that hemorrhagic and ischemic signs of vascular injury may be of greater clinical utility. Extremity arterial injuries from the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma PROspective Observational Vascular Injury Treatment registry were analyzed to examine the relationships between hard signs, ischemic signs, and hemorrhagic signs of extremity vascular injury with workup, diagnosis, and management. Of 1,910 cases, 1,108 (58%) had hard signs of vascular injury. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) was more commonly used as the diagnostic modality in patients without hard signs, while operative exploration was primarily used for diagnosis in hard signs. Patients undergoing CTA were more likely to undergo endovascular or hybrid repair (EHR) (10.7%) compared with patients who underwent exploration for diagnosis (1.5%). Of 915 patients presenting with hemorrhagic signs, CTA was performed 14.5% of the time and was associated with a higher rate of EHR and observation. Of the 490 patients presenting with ischemic signs, CTA was performed 31.6% of the time and was associated with higher rates of EHR and observation. Hemorrhagic signs were associated with arterial transection, while ischemic signs were associated with arterial occlusion. Patients with ischemic signs undergoing exploration for diagnosis received more units of packed red blood cells during the first 24 hours. There was no difference in amputation rate, reintervention rate, hospital length of stay, or mortality in comparing groups who underwent CTA versus exploration. Hard signs have limitations in identification and characterization of extremity arterial injuries. A strategy of using hemorrhagic and ischemic signs of vascular injury is of greater clinical utility. Further prospective study is needed to validate this proposed redefinition of categorization of presentations of extremity arterial injury. Diagnostic, level III.

Mortality and Major Amputation after Revascularisation in Octogenarians Versus Non-Octogenarians with Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the clinical outcomes after revascularisation in octogenarians with chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI). This was a systematic review and meta-analysis, in which the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched systematically by two independent researchers. Meta-analyses were performed to analyse one year mortality, one year major amputation, and one year amputation free survival (AFS) after revascularisation. Pooled outcome estimates were reported as percentages and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). In addition, sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed and the quality of evidence was determined according to the GRADE system. The review includes 21 observational studies with patients who were treated for CLTI. Meta-analysis of 12 studies with a total of 17 118 patients was performed. A mortality rate of 32% was found in octogenarians (95% CI 27–37%), which was significantly higher than in the non-octogenarians (17%, 95% CI 11–22%/OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.93–3.29; GRADE: “low”). No significant difference in amputation rate was found (octogenarians 15%, 95% CI 11–18%; non-octogenarians 12%, 95% CI 7–14%; GRADE: “very low”). AFS was significantly lower in the octogenarian group (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.03–2.43; GRADE: “very low”). In a subgroup analysis differentiating between endovascular and surgical revascularisation, amputation rates were comparable. For octogenarians, those treated conservatively had a mortality rate significantly higher than those treated by revascularisation (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.19–2.60; GRADE: “very low”). No significant difference in mortality rate was found between primary amputation and revascularisation in octogenarians (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.24–2.03; GRADE: “very low”). In octogenarians with CLTI, a substantial one year mortality rate of 32% was found after revascularisation. The amputation rates were comparable between both age groups. However, only low quality evidence could be obtained supporting the results of this meta-analysis because only observational studies were available for inclusion.

Editor's Choice – Mortality and Major Amputation after Revascularisation in Octogenarians Versus Non-Octogenarians with Chronic Limb Threatening Ischaemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the clinical outcomes after revascularisation in octogenarians with chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI). This was a systematic review and meta-analysis, in which the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched systematically by two independent researchers. Meta-analyses were performed to analyse one year mortality, one year major amputation, and one year amputation free survival (AFS) after revascularisation. Pooled outcome estimates were reported as percentages and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). In addition, sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed and the quality of evidence was determined according to the GRADE system. The review includes 21 observational studies with patients who were treated for CLTI. Meta-analysis of 12 studies with a total of 17118 patients was performed. A mortality rate of 32% was found in octogenarians (95% CI 27-37%), which was significantly higher than in the non-octogenarians (17%, 95% CI 11-22%/OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.93-3.29; GRADE: "low"). No significant difference in amputation rate was found (octogenarians 15%, 95% CI 11-18%; non-octogenarians 12%, 95% CI 7-14%; GRADE: "very low"). AFS was significantly lower in the octogenarian group (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.03-2.43; GRADE: "very low"). In a subgroup analysis differentiating between endovascular and surgical revascularisation, amputation rates were comparable. For octogenarians, those treated conservatively had a mortality rate significantly higher than those treated by revascularisation (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.19-2.60; GRADE: "very low"). No significant difference in mortality rate was found between primary amputation and revascularisation in octogenarians (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.24-2.03; GRADE: "very low"). In octogenarians with CLTI, a substantial one year mortality rate of 32% was found after revascularisation. The amputation rates were comparable between both age groups. However, only low quality evidence could be obtained supporting the results of this meta-analysis because only observational studies were available for inclusion.

1115-P: Comparative Rate of Amputations among Type 2 Diabetes Patients Starting Different SGLT2 Inhibitors

Prescribing of SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) has been on the rise. A 2016 FDA safety alert raised concerns of a possible risk for lower extremity amputations for patients initiating treatment with SGLT2i. We used a large national claims database to compare amputation events among patients newly prescribed one of 3 different SGLT2is: Canagliflozin (Cana), Dapagliflozin (Dapa), Empagliflozin (Empa). Study included adults with a first prescription fill for a SGLT2i between January 2014 and May 2017. We estimated adjusted incident rate ratios for any subsequent non-traumatic amputation over a mean of about 16.7 months of follow up using a multi-variable Poisson regression model adjusting for demographics, insurance, year of start, and clinical covariates (prior non-traumatic amputation and Diabetes Complication Severity Index (DCSI)). Among 43017 new SGLT2i starts, 64% (N=27528) were Cana, 22% (N=9487) were Empa and 14% (N=6002) were Dapa. Mean age was 58.0 ± 11.4 years and 42% were women. Use of Empa increased over time (1.3% of new starts in 2014 to 45.3% in 2017). 14% of Dapa patients had Medicare, compared with 32% of Cana and 35% of Empa. Unadjusted event rates (per 1000 patient years) were 2.81 for Cana, 2.71 for Dapa, and 2.43 for Empa. In the adjusted model, no differences in amputation rates for Cana (IRR 1.26 CI [0.81, 1.97]) or Dapa (IRR 1.31 CI [0.72, 2.36]) when compared to Empa. Significant predictors were prior amputation (IRR 21.44 CI [11.88-36.69]) and DCSI score of 3 or higher (IRR 8.44 CI [5.55-12.82]). Non-traumatic amputation rates for patients on SGLT2is were low and did not differ among Cana, Dapa or Empa. Limitations include short follow-up and non-randomized study design. Understanding the risk of amputation in patients with diabetes related complications, who may otherwise benefit from SGLT2i use, is needed especially given benefit in cardiovascular outcomes and mortality. More research should investigate if patients’ risk of amputation can be predicted prior to initiation. Disclosure S. Hakimian: None. A. Wallia: Research Support; Self; Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk Inc., UnitedHealth Group. R. Kang: Research Support; Self; UnitedHealth Group. A.J. Cooper: None. M. O’Brien: Research Support; Self; UnitedHealth Group. D.T. Liss: None. S.A. Harris: None. M. Cherupally: None. E.D. Parker: None. R.T. Ackermann: Research Support; Self; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, UnitedHealth Group. Funding UnitedHealth Group (SP0036847)

Study on the Effect of the Five-in-One Comprehensive Limb Salvage Technologies of Treating Severe Diabetic Foot.

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy and advantages of five-in-one comprehensive limb salvage technologies for the treatment of severe diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Approach: Clinical data for 120 patients with severe DFU treated between January 2012 and December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. The control group (48 cases) was treated with traditional therapies, including controlling blood sugar, improving microcirculation, preserving nerve function, and dressing changes, whereas the experimental group (72 cases) was treated with traditional therapy combined with additional techniques, such as early and thorough debridement, negative pressure wound therapy, revascularization, and skin graft or flap. Ankle-brachial index (ABI), transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), wound healing rate, healing time, ulcer recurrence rate, and amputation rate were recorded. Results: Compared with the control group, the experimental group significantly improved wound healing rate (93.1% vs. 72.9%; p < 0.01), decreased wound healing time (16.2 ± 5.4 days vs. 32.2 ± 7.8 days; p < 0.05), reduced major limb amputation rate (1.4% vs. 10.4%, p < 0.05), and ulcer recurrence rate (5.6% vs. 14.6%; p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in amputation rate between experimental and control group (29.2% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.628). After revascularization, the revascularization group showed significantly improved ABI (0.75 ± 0.21 vs. 0.35 ± 0.16, p < 0.05) and TcPO2 (36 ± 6 mmHg vs. 15 ± 4 mmHg, p < 0.05). Innovation: We propose a five-in-one comprehensive treatment method, which provides a multidisciplinary cooperative model for comprehensive medical and surgical treatments for DFU. Conclusion: The five-in-one comprehensive limb salvage treatment technologies played a vital role in enhancing the healing rate of severe DFU, shortening the healing time, and reducing the rate of recurrence and major amputation, thus improving the overall quality of life.