A recent report from the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death has highlighted the need for improvement in the care provided for patients undergoing amputation.
Recent figures show that more than 5,000 people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland undergo a major amputation each year. However, a report by the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) has found that fewer than half (44%, 229/519) of patients that needed leg amputation received good care because of poorly co-ordinated care and a lack of multidisciplinary team working. The report also highlights concerns about the growth in diabetes that is increasingly leading to amputation.
Lead report author and consultant vascular surgeon, Professor Michael Gough, stated that: “A significant improvement is needed in the care of amputation patients given that fewer than half received good care, and that the mortality rate of 12.4% for the procedure was higher than has been reported in the US (9.6%). Having a limb removed is a life changing experience and patients need to be supported by a wide range of health professionals, other than just the surgeon.”
Good multidisciplinary care from the outset is required to ensure that these patients, who often have multiple medical problems, receive the best possible treatment, including treatment of diabetes and heart problems, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and a properly planned discharge.
Log in or register FREE to read the rest
This story is Premium Content and is only available to registered users. Please log in at the top of the page to view the full text.
If you don't already have an account, please register with us completely free of charge.
