Reasons for Leg Amputation

Leg amputation is an extreme medical measure that can have life-changing consequences. But it may also be necessary in some cases to improve a person's quality of life, or even save their life. 

In this blog post, we will explore the various reasons why leg amputation might be considered and how it could help someone who is suffering from a medical condition. We will also discuss what to expect after the procedure and how to manage any potential complications afterwards. 

What exactly is a leg amputation?

Leg amputation is a major surgical procedure that requires extensive preparation and planning. It is typically used to treat medical conditions that cause severe pain or disability, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetes, cancer, or traumatic injury. The procedure involves surgically removing all or part of the leg, either above or below the knee.

Before undergoing an amputation, patients will go through an extensive evaluation process to determine if it is the best treatment option for their condition. In most cases, other treatments such as medications, lifestyle modifications and physical therapy will be tried first before a doctor recommends an amputation. During this evaluation process, doctors will discuss with the patient the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. 

Once it has been determined that an amputation is necessary, patients will be advised on what to expect both leading up to and after the surgery. This includes pre-operative tests such as:

• Blood work, X-rays and imaging scans

• Psychological screenings

• Pre-surgery consultations with doctors

• Discussions about prosthetics

• Informed consent paperwork. 

Patients should plan for at least one week of rest prior to surgery in order to ensure optimal healing afterwards. During this time period they should also follow any dietary instructions from their doctor and make arrangements for transportation home from the hospital following their procedure. 

The leg amputation process itself typically consists of several stages: 

• Preparing the skin for surgery by cleaning it thoroughly

• Administering anaesthesia

• Making incisions around the affected area

• Removing muscle, bone and other tissues as needed

• Cauterising blood vessels in order to reduce bleeding during recovery

• Closing up incisions with stitches or staples. 

After this point - depending at which point on the leg  the limb was removed - a prosthetic device may be fitted immediately or at a later date following further healing of the site of the wound.

Why would a leg amputation be necessary?

Leg amputation may be necessary in some cases due to medical conditions such as cancer, peripheral arterial disease, or trauma. In the case of cancer, tumours that cannot be removed by other means may necessitate an amputation in order to prevent the spread of the tumour. 

Peripheral arterial disease can cause severe pain and ulcerations on the foot or leg which can lead to a limb becoming non-functional or infected - requiring amputation to stop further damage. Trauma is another common cause for having to consider an amputation - examples include bike accidents, loss of limb through war injuries or extreme industrial accidents. In such cases, amputation is often carried out as a life-saving measure if quick action is taken upon diagnosis. 

In addition, other medical conditions such as diabetes may cause serious circulatory problems leading to lack of blood flow and sensation in the affected areas; this can eventually result in gangrene which would require removal of part or all of a limb from below the knee down.  Amputations can also help improve quality of life for those with serious and debilitating chronic illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis where painful movement becomes too much for them cope with. 

Whichever the cause, an amputation is a major surgery and there are risks involved – both during the procedure and in the post-operative period. It is important to make sure that you understand what the process involves and what can be expected of you before, during and after your surgery. Patients will often require rehabilitative therapy and adjustments to their lifestyle following the procedure, while they adjust to life with a prosthetic limb. 

Adjusting to life after a leg amputation

Adjusting to life with a major amputation can be difficult, but with the right support and resources, it is achievable. The first step is to create a plan for emotional and physical recovery. This means finding ways to cope with the grief and trauma of the amputation, as well as managing pain and other physical symptoms.

It is also important to make sure the prosthetic limb fits properly and that you have access to proper rehabilitation services. To make sure your prosthetic limb fits comfortably and correctly, find an experienced prosthetist who can customise the device for you. Also, check out local rehabilitation programs or classes that specialise in working with people who have had an amputation. 

Enlisting family or friends' help may also be beneficial as they can provide emotional support as well as assistance in daily activities. If needed, seek professional counselling from a mental health professional such as a therapist or psychologist. Additionally, joining online forums or support groups specifically for amputees may be helpful for sharing stories about adjusting to life after an amputation or learning more about different coping strategies from those who have been through similar experiences.

Lastly, wherever possible take advantage of adaptive technologies like robotic prostheses that can improve daily functioning. Prosthetic limbs are becoming increasingly sophisticated and offer an improved range of motion, strength and dexterity than traditional prosthetic devices. Using this technology may help reduce frustration when transitioning into life with an amputation while simultaneously improving independence by allowing you to do more on your own terms.

Contact us 

If you have any questions about leg amputation or have received negligent care, contact a member of our expert team today. Call us on 0800 027 2557 or fill out our online contact form for a call back at a time convenient for you.