Diabetes related amputations in Pacific Islands countries: A root cause analysis of precipitating events

作者：Tin Si Thu Win^*; Gadabu Eva; Iro George; Tasserei John; Colagiuri Ruth

来源：Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 2013, 100(2): 230-234.

DOI：10.1016/j.diabres.2013.03.012

• Amputations
• Diabetes
• Risk factors
• Pacific Island countries (PICs)

Aim: To identify precipitating events and factors preceding diabetes related amputations in Pacific Islands countries (PICs).
Methods: Using a root cause analysis approach, a questionnaire seeking information on events leading up to amputation was administered to a convenience sample of 85 people with diabetes in three PICs (Solomon Islands, Nauru and Vanuatu) who had a lower limb amputation in the previous five years.
Results: There were 85 participants (36% females) with a mean age of 54.1 years and a mean diabetes duration of 10.5years prior to amputation. The first event was trauma and an infected wound in 55% and a blister in another 41%. Half (51%) did take any action soon after the initial trigger event. The major reasons leading to the amputation included delaying treatment (42%), use of traditional treatments (18%) and insufficient knowledge about foot care (11%). 36% of participants had not received foot care information prior to the amputation and 19% did not attend anywhere for regular treatment.
Conclusions: This study identified key precipitating events and underlying factors which contribute to diabetes related amputations and which, if addressed successfully, have the potential to reduce amputations rates.

• 出版日期2013-5