Question

What is the pathophysiology of Medical Diagnosis: "Status post below knee amputation of left lower extremity?" In your own words

Answer 1

Ans) Pathophysiology of "Status post below knee amputation of left lower extremity":

- Amputation of lower extremity is the treatment for unreconstructable or functionally unsatisfactory limb.

- The energy needed for walking is inversely proportional to the length of remaining limb after amputation.

- So after amputation, the higher the length of lower limb then greater amount of energy will be needed for walking.

- The level of amputation moves proximally --> walking speed decreases --> Oxygen consumption increases.

- The soft tissue envelope of proximal limb becomes the proprioceptive end organ between the interface of residual extremity & prothesis.

- Amputation is not the failure of treatment but patient's first step for comfortable and productive life.

- Post operative rigid dressing decreases edema, pain, protect limb from trauma & early mobilization.