Knowra Amputation Amputation Amputation is the surgical removal of a limb or other body part to treat disease, injury, or another medical condition. It may be performed through a joint or by cutting through bone.
Amputation level : The anatomical location at which a limb or body part is surgically removed. The level determines which tissues remain and affects healing, prosthetic options, and function.
Peripheral artery disease : A condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow, especially to the limbs. Severe loss of blood supply can cause tissue death that cannot be healed without amputation.
Limb : An arm or leg, including its bones, joints, muscles, and associated tissues. Most amputations remove part or all of an upper or lower limb.
Prosthesis : An artificial device that replaces a missing body part or supports its function. A prosthesis can restore some mobility or task-specific ability after limb loss.
Guillotine amputation : An open amputation in which tissue is divided rapidly, often leaving the wound open for later treatment. This staged technique can control severe infection or contamination before definitive closure.
Diabetic foot ulcer : An open wound on the foot associated with diabetes, often complicated by poor circulation or infection. A nonhealing ulcer can progress to infection and tissue loss requiring surgical removal.
Surgical margin : The boundary between tissue removed during surgery and tissue left in the body. For tumors and infection, surgeons assess margins to determine whether diseased tissue remains.
Amputee rehabilitation : A coordinated process that supports recovery, mobility, self-care, and adaptation after limb loss. Rehabilitation builds strength, manages complications, and develops new ways to perform daily activities.
Amputation stump : The remaining portion of a limb after amputation. Its shape, skin condition, and healing determine readiness for rehabilitation and prosthetic fitting.
Necrotizing fasciitis : A rapidly progressing infection that destroys tissue beneath the skin. Amputation may be needed to remove infected tissue and control a life-threatening infection.
Show all 22