Presse Med
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The choice and timing of therapeutic methods for injuries of the lower limbs were evaluated in 60 patients. Primary amputation had to be performed in 18 of them, and conservative treatment was attempted in the others. Sixteen secondary amputations were necessary, mostly for arterial lesions. ⋯ When local signs of complication were present, this difference was highly significant. Age over 50 and arterial lesions were aggravating factors. When present together with an already high severity score, these factors should suggest immediate amputation as a life-saving measure.