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Changes in the number of lower limb amputations during a period of increasing vascular surgical activity. Results of a nation-wide study, Denmark, 1977-1990.

OBJECTIVE
To find out if the number of lower limb amputations for peripheral occlusive arterial disease increased during the period of increased vascular surgical activity 1977-1990.


DESIGN
Retrospective review of a database covering all admissions to Danish hospitals.


SUBJECTS
All patients admitted to Danish hospitals with peripheral occlusive disease during the period 1977-1990.


MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Numbers, and age and sex specific incidence rates for admission, arterial reconstruction and amputation.


RESULTS
The number of admissions during which arterial reconstruction for OAD was done increased from 963 in 1977 to 2311 in 1990 (p < 0.001). The number of admissions during which a diagnosis of OAD was made and an amputation done increased from 1290 in 1977 to a maximum of 1609 in 1983 (p < 0.001). The number remained nearly constant in the mid-1980s but decreased during last part of the period to 1181 in 1990 (p < 0.001).


CONCLUSION
The reduction in the number of amputations may indicate that vascular surgery even on a national scale is effective in preventing amputations for OAD.