Amputation

Question 1

Types of amputation

Answer 1

Hip diarticulation
Transfermoral (AKA)
Transtibial (BKA)
Transmetatarsal
Digital amputation <4 toes

Question 2

Causes of amputation

Answer 2

Diabetes - affects small vessels in foot

Emboli from atherosclerotic plaques

Systemic adrenalin - vasocontrstriction

Question 3

Complications of amputation

Answer 3

Failure to heal/stump break down
Wound infection
Hospital acquired pneumonia
DVT/PE
Pain/phaontom sensation
Falls/poor mobility
MI/stroke/mortality

Question 4

Post op aims

Answer 4

Promote stump healing (control blood sugars in diabetics, avoid falls)

Minimise pain (incl phantom pain) - wound catheter immediately post op, massage stump, neuropathic analgesia

Prevent cardiovascular complications (best meds for atherosclerotic disease (statin, anti platelet, antihypertensive, blood sugar control)

Discharge patient to safe environment - OT, physio, social work