Epidemiology of major limb amputation in India: a systematic review of regional and demographic trends

Major limb amputation remains an important cause of disability worldwide and is associated with substantial physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiology, etiology, and regional variation of major limb amputations in India. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from January 1980 to March 2026. Of 150 records identified, 14 studies met inclusion criteria. A total of 7,272 patients were analyzed. Trauma accounted for 5,316 cases (73.1%) and non-traumatic causes for 1,956 cases (26.9%). Males represented 81.3% of reported patients and lower-limb amputations accounted for 90.8% of all reported amputations. Major limb amputation remains a significant public health challenge in India. Strengthening injury-prevention initiatives, improving management of diabetes and vascular disease, and expanding access to rehabilitation and prosthetic services may help reduce the burden of limb loss in India.