[A report of 115 cases of amputation after electric injury].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the main features of amputation subsequent to electric injury.

METHODS

One hundred and fifteen cases of amputation were analyzed with the purpose to define the indication, the optimal level, operational methods and the prognosis.

RESULTS

The incidences of amputation in this group were 45.4% for upper and 14.9% for lower extremities, respectively. The indications were total necrosis of the extremities, secondary necrosis of the extremities due to the thrombosis, bleeding and rupture of the major supplying arteries and failure to restore severely injured tissue. The commonest amputation levels were the mid third and the upper third of the forearms. The primary healing rate was 63.5%.

CONCLUSION

It was very important to identify the optimal indications, the proper levels and operational methods for the amputation after electric injury, so as to make stumps more suitable for the installation of artificial limbs to restore better function.