BACKGROUND Despite mild reductions in rates of lower extremity amputation over the past decade, few data exist on the use of arterial testing in patients before amputation. METHODS AND RESULTS Using Medicare claims from 2000 through 2010, we examined rates of preamputation arterial testing between 0 to 12 and 0 to 24 months before amputation. We used multivariable, modified Poisson regression...

OBJECTIVES This study sought to characterize temporal trends, patient-specific factors, and geographic variation associated with amputation in patients with lower-extremity peripheral artery disease (LE PAD) during the study period. BACKGROUND Amputation represents the end-stage failure for those with LE PAD, and little is known about the rates and geographic variation in the use of LE amputa...

The purpose of this study was to determine independent influences of functional level and lower limb amputation type on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes. We conducted a secondary data analysis for patients with lower limb amputation who received inpatient medical rehabilitation (N = 26,501). The study outcomes included length of stay, discharge functional status, and community discharge. Predi...

arteriovenous fistulae traditionally have been placed in the upper extremity. experience with groin hemodialysis access has been discouraging because of high infection rates and associated limb amputation. the aim of this study was to determine infection rates, patency rates, and possible predictive factors for prosthetic thigh angioaccess outcomes in our hemodialysis patient population. a pros...

There is considerable divergence of opinion about the merits of Syme’s amputation. In some countries it is highly regarded ; in some it is neglected ; in others it even is roundly condemned. In Canada it is thought to be the best of all amputations of the lower extremity above the foot and has been used with consistent success since before the 1914-1918 war to the present day. Experience in Gre...

BACKGROUND Diabetic foot (DF) is the main cause of nontraumatic lower extremity amputation. Early recognition and management of risk factors for foot complications may prevent amputations and other adverse outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS At our hospital we have a protocol for the management of patients hospitalized because of DF. We collected clinical and laboratory data, details of diabetes ...