Principles of Amputation

Types and Levels of Amputation

Amputation is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a limb or part of a limb. It is performed to improve a patient's overall health and quality of life when a limb is severely damaged, infected, or non-functional.

Types of Amputation

• Major Amputations: Involve removal of a significant portion of a limb (e.g., above-knee amputation).
• Minor Amputations: Limited to fingers, toes, or small parts of a limb.
• Traumatic Amputations: Result from accidents or severe injuries.
• Surgical Amputations: Planned operations due to disease, infection, or congenital deformities.

Levels of Amputation

• Upper Limb Amputations: Includes shoulder disarticulation, transhumeral, and transradial amputations.
• Lower Limb Amputations: Includes hip disarticulation, transfemoral, transtibial, and foot amputations.

Rehabilitation After Amputation

Rehabilitation is crucial for recovery and adaptation. Physical therapy, prosthetic training, and psychological support play vital roles in helping individuals regain function and independence.