Amputations

Question 1

what are major limb amputations?

Answer 1

proximal to wrist or ankle

Question 2

what are minor limb amputations?

Answer 2

distal to wrist (hand and fingers) or ankle (foot and toes)

Question 3

what percentage of upper limb amputations occur below wrist?

Answer 3

92%

Question 4

what percentage of lower limb amputations occur at or above ankle?

Answer 4

65%

Question 5

what’s the prognosis for an amputation?

Answer 5

varies by cause of limb loss and other comorbidities

Question 6

what is the surgical goal?

Answer 6

preserve limb length balanced with:

wound healing capability
residual limb coverage
patient preference
rehabilitation potential
local prosthetic expertise

Question 7

what are some secondary health effects that may occur after an amputation?

Answer 7

poor nutritional intake
reduced exercise
excessive weight
hypertension
skin issues
diabetes

Question 8

what musculoskeletal and medical complications are lower limb amputees at higher risk for?

Answer 8

upper limb nerve entrapment (using crutches)

Question 9

what musculoskeletal and medical complications are upper limb amputees at higher risk for?

Answer 9

pain in neck, upper back, shoulders and remaining limb