Written Exam - Amputation

Question 1

what are some indications for amputation?

Answer 1

limb salvage isn’t possible or it is too costly

Question 2

what are some contraindications for amputation?

Answer 2

deficits or abnormalities in other limbs, large patient size, & obesity

Question 3

what are the goals of amputation?

Answer 3

preserve life by removing infection/neoplasia

improve patient comfort

improve quality of life

Question 4

what are the 2 techniques used for amputating a forelimb?

Answer 4

1. disarticulation of the scapulohumeral joint
2. amputation by removal of the scapula

Question 5

what are the 3 techniques used for amputating a hindlimb?

Answer 5

1. mid-femoral osteotomy
2. disarticulation of the coxofemoral joint
3. amputation en bloc with acetabulectomy

Question 6

why use an inverted T incision for a scapula removal amputation technique?

Answer 6

leaves more skin for adequate closure

Question 7

what medial neurovascular structures will you see on a hindlimb amputation?

Answer 7

femoral artery, vein, & nerve

Question 8

what lateral neurovascular structures will you see on a hindlimb amputation?

Answer 8

sciatic nerve - tibial & peroneal

distal caudal femoral artery

Question 9

what vessels are ligated in a coxofemoral disarticulation technique when removing a hindlimb?

Answer 9

superficial circumflex iliac, lateral circumflex femoral, & medial circumflex femoral, caudal gluteal

Question 10

what does post-op care look like for amputation patients?

Answer 10

analgesia - NSAIDs, opioids, epidural

surgical incision care - protective bandaging

rehab/physical therapy

suture removal - 14 days post-op

Question 11

what are some common complications seen in amputation?

Answer 11

seroma, hemorrhage, dehiscence, infection, failure to thrive, support limb disease, phantom limb pain, & neuroma