Amputation is the removal of a limb due to trauma, illness, or infection. It is a last resort for doctors and can relieve pain. Rehabilitation and reconstructive surgery have made amputations less frequent. Diabetes and sepsis are common causes, and amputees can experience emotional trauma and phantom limb pain.
An amputation is the removal of an extremity of the body, most often referring to the loss of an arm, leg, toe or foot. Removal is often done through surgery in response to trauma, illness, or infection. In addition to removing diseased tissue, amputation of a limb can also relieve pain. A congenital amputation occurs at birth and is the term used when someone is born without a limb.
When an amputation is performed, the surgeon cuts the skin around the part being amputated and removes the part. After removing the limb in question, the remaining bone is smoothed out. The remaining flap of skin, muscle and connective tissue is used to cover the bone, which is then surgically stitched and heals into what is commonly called a “stump”.
The amount of time spent on reconstruction varies based on which part of the body is amputated. Anyone who loses an arm or leg can expect a more detailed reconstruction. Special details are provided to prepare their stump for an eventual prosthesis.
Amputation is always a last resort for doctors who have tried other methods to save the limb in question. Rehabilitation, reconstructive surgery and rapid treatment with blood and plasma have made amputations less frequent than in the past. The most common causes of an amputation vary by country. Countries with soldiers in battle will have significantly higher amputation rates due to attacks, while other countries will have more amputations caused by disease.
The most common diseases or conditions that can lead to an amputation are diabetes and sepsis. Also, hardening of the arteries, arterial embolism, gangrene, frostbite, Raynaud’s disease, and Buerger’s disease are linked to amputations. It’s also important to note that amputation is major surgery and carries all of the same dangers as other major surgeries, such as loss of blood, receiving anesthesia, and possible blood clots.
In addition to the obvious physical limitations, amputees can also experience emotional trauma surrounding their amputation. Many amputees experience a common side effect known as a “phantom limb.” Those who have had an amputation experience itching, pain or burning in limbs that are no longer there. While phantom limb or phantom pain can be uncomfortable, it can be helpful if an amputee chooses to use a prosthesis. Some amputees begin working with a prosthesis as early as two weeks after surgery.
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