METHODS: All major non-traumatic lower limb amputations performed for the first time, in particular databetween 1 January 2013 - 31 December 2013, and between 1 January 2014 - December 2014, were identified in the National Health Fund (NHF) database. In the presented study, the patients were grouped in relevant provincial departments of the NHF according to their place of residence, and not according to the hospital where lower limb amputation was performed.
RESULTS: In 2013 in Poland, 4,727 major non-traumatic lower limb amputation were performed in diabetic patients, and 4,350 in 2014. On the other hand, in non-diabetic patients, 3,469 major non-traumatic lower limb amputations were performed in 2013, and 3149 in 2014. The mean number indicator of major non-traumatic lower limb amputations in diabetic patients in Poland, compared to the average indicator of amputations in patients without diagnosed diabetes in Poland was 19.9-fold in 2013 and 19.4-fold higher in 2014.
CONCLUSIONS: In populations of diabetic patients and individuals without diagnosed diabetes major non-traumatic lower limb amputations are performed over 19-fold more frequently.