Work

War-related limb amputations among soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a descriptive case series study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Soldiers on the front line are at risk of traumatic limb amputation. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), due to recurring clashes in the eastern part of the country, many soldiers have experience disabilities, including amputated limbs. No data is currently available. This preliminary study aimed to describe the epidemiological profile, anatomical characteristics, and post-amputation clinical outcomes of war-related amputations among military personnel in the DRC. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in three defense zones from August 2022 to August 2025. Epidemiological data were collected from administrative and medical records and analyzed using STATA software, version 18. Results Three hundred and forty-three soldiers were selected. The 18–30 age group was the largest (47.2%). The average age was 34 ± 8 years. There were 341 men and 3 women. The majority of amputees (68.2%) came from the third defense zone (provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Maniema and Orientale). Ground force units represented 96.2%. The lower limbs were affected in 62.4% of cases, while the the upper limbs affected 37.6% of soldiers. In the lower limbs, leg amputations accounted for 58.9%, whilst in the upper limbs, arm amputations accounted for 70.5%. Infection was observed in 84.2% of cases. Conclusion War-related amputations among soldiers in the DRC predominantly affect young men in their most productive years, with firearm injuries being the leading mechanism and the lower limbs most commonly involved. The study also reveals a high burden of post-amputation complications, underscoring the need to strengthen the continuum of trauma care, including prevention, evacuation, surgical management, rehabilitation, and trauma surveillance systems.

Source: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-026-29803-x

Authors: Mumbere Vihamba Serge, Mubelo Marcel Aspro, Kabanda Kurhenga Gilbert, Phanzu Reagan, Mokassa Bakumobatane Luc

Institutions: University of Kinshasa, Ecole de santé publique de Kinshasa

Language: English

Topic: Health and Conflict Studies

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,290