Advertise With Us

Amputation

What Is Amputation Surgery?

bones joints hips replacement medical tourism-3.jpg

Amputation surgery is necessary when a part of the patient’s body is beyond repair and must be removed to avoid damage to other parts of the body.  Patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, heart failure, blood clotting disorders, or infection are not always good candidates for amputation surgery.   

A general or orthopedic surgeon performs the operation, giving the patient general or regional anesthesia.  While the specifics of amputation surgery vary according to the part of the body that needs removal, the common goal is to remove the diseased tissue and create a stump for the attachment of a prosthesis.   

Making an incision around the part being amputated, the surgeon removes the body part and smoothes down the bone.  Then, constructing a flap of muscle, connective tissue, and skin, the surgeon covers the raw end of the bone with flap, securing it with sutures.  These sutures remain in place for approximately 1 month.  Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon typically applies a rigid dressing or cast, which remains in place for approximately 2 weeks. 

Patients are often prescribed medication for the pain and given a course of antibiotics to ward off infection.  Physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary to promote circulation.  Patients may remain in the hospital for several days or for as long as 2 weeks, depending on the severity of the amputation and their general health. 
Back, Bones and Joints Next, Arthrodesis