Sahel Medical Journal (Jan 2011)
Paediatric amputations in Sokoto, North-West Nigeria
Abstract
Background: Reports on Paediatric amputations are few in Nigeria. Though reports on adults abound, the peculiarities a child has in terms of anatomy and physiology with regard to amputation surgeries are different. This study aims to provide a profile of Paediatric amputations carried out at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Methoas: Data regarding Paediatric amputations over a 5-year period between January 2004 and December 2008 were obtained. A retrospective analysis was done with regard to sex, indications and pattern of amputation as well as complications. Age limit of 16 years was used as this represents the cut-off for Paediatric admissions in our hospital. Results: There were 37 cases of Paediatric amputations in 37 patients representing 27% of all amputations done over the five year period. Boys accounted for 23(62%) and girls 14(38%) with M: F ratio or 1.6:1. The age range was between 1 and 16 years with a mean of 8.16 years and standard deviation of 4.01 years. Traditional bone setters gangrene was the commonest indication and accounted for 19(51%), while trauma accounted for 10(27%). Above elbow amputation was the commonest form as seen in 12(32%) patients, followed by above knee in 11(30%) patients. Anaemia, wound infections and tetanus were the common complications. The duration of hospital stay ranged from 1 to 48 days with a mean of 13.97 days and standard deviation of 10.7 days. One (3%) death was recorded. Conclusion: Community awareness campaign on misadventures of traditional bone setters would go a long way in reducing the rate of Paediatric amputations in our society.
