Question

Understand the complications of limb amputations, clinical manifestations

Answer 1

Amputation is the surgical removal of all or part of a limb or extremity such as an arm, leg, foot, hand, toe, or finger.

There are many reasons an amputation may be necessary. The most common is poor circulation because of damage or narrowing of the arteries. Without adequate blood flow, the body's cells cannot get oxygen and nutrients they need from the bloodstream. As a result, the affected tissue begins to die and infection may set in.

The major indications for lower limb amputation in vascular surgery are for non-reconstructable critical limb ischaemia, non-viable acute limb ischaemia, trauma, and for diabetic foot infection. Amputation is therefore needed to preserve life, prevent the spread of infection, alleviate pain, and promote mobility. Common amputations performed are digital, ray (digit plus metatarsal), transmetatarsal, below knee (BKA), and above knee (AKA)