Amputation

Question 1

What are the different types of lower limb amputation?

Answer 1

Foot – including toes or partial foot
At the ankle (ankle disarticulation)
Below the knee (transtibial)
At the knee (knee disarticulation)
Above the knee (transfemoral)
At the hip (hip disarticulation)

Question 2

What are the indications for amputation?

Answer 2

Non-viable leg
Pt condition precludes arterial surgery
Diabetic foot disease/gangrene
Neoplasms
Trauma
Osteomyelitis

Question 3

Describe the rehab needs of each type of amputation

Answer 3

Foot - Affects walking/balance
Ankle - Pt able to walk w/o prosthesis
Transtibial/knee - Able to bear weight
Anything above is extremely difficult