Before a leg amputation
Before planned leg surgery, understanding the process, the team and the steps ahead of you can help you feel more secure during the preparation period.
What to expect before surgery
Learning that a leg amputation is planned can raise many questions. Getting to know the process, the team that will follow you and the recovery period in advance can help you approach this period with greater awareness. This page offers general information; decisions specific to your situation are made only by your physician.
Amputation is the surgical removal of a limb or part of a limb. The decision is often made after other treatment options have been assessed and with the person's general health taken into account. You are advised to share every question on your mind during this period with your treatment team.
The team that will follow you
Amputation and the rehabilitation that follows are usually a process in which several specialties work together. Different roles, such as the surgeon, the physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, the physiotherapist and the orthotics-prosthetics technician, come into play at different stages of planning and recovery.
This team assesses your condition before surgery; after surgery, it jointly plans steps such as healing of the residual limb, maintaining mobility and, if deemed appropriate, preparation for a prosthetic fitting.
- The surgical team plans the operation and the level
- The rehabilitation team focuses on maintaining movement and strength
- A prosthetic fitting, when deemed appropriate, is considered in line with the physician's prescription
Why might amputation be needed?
Circulation problems
In some situations where blood flow to the leg is severely reduced, the tissues may not be adequately nourished. Amputation may be considered where other treatment options are insufficient. This assessment is made only by the physician.
Injuries
Amputation may come into consideration when, after severe trauma, the limb has been damaged beyond repair. The decision is made according to the nature of the injury and the person's general condition.
Infections
In some serious infections that do not respond to treatment and carry a risk of spreading, amputation may be an option following the physician's assessment.
Other conditions
Some congenital differences or certain diseases may also bring amputation into consideration. Each situation is dealt with on its own terms and the approach is determined individually.
About amputation levels
How is the level determined?
The amputation level is planned by the physician, taking into account factors such as the condition of the tissues, the adequacy of circulation and the expected healing. The aim is to obtain a functional residual limb that is favorable for healing.
What do below-knee and above-knee mean?
Where the knee joint can be preserved, the level may be planned below the knee; where it cannot, above the knee. Preserving the knee can be decisive for movement and balance; however, this may not always be possible.
Does the level affect the process later on?
The level can affect the rehabilitation plan and, if deemed appropriate, the prosthetic options. For this reason, the decision on the level is made with long-term mobility also in mind. The details should be discussed with your physician.
Preparing for recovery and rehabilitation
After surgery, a certain amount of time is needed for the residual limb to heal and for its swelling (edema) to decrease. During this period, work on positioning, maintaining range of motion and supporting the muscles is important. These measures are planned under the guidance of the physiotherapist and physician.
When healing has reached a sufficient level and the physician deems it appropriate, a prosthetic fitting may be considered as the next step. This process progresses differently from person to person and may require patience.
The headings below offer general information about different stages of the process. The content does not replace diagnosis or treatment.
Trial and adjustment period
In the early period after surgery, temporary fittings and test (check) sockets can help achieve a fit with the healing residual limb.
Daily life with a prosthesis
Putting on and taking off the prosthesis, training in its use and a gradual return to daily activities are part of rehabilitation.
Support and sharing
Contact with people who have gone through similar experiences and support groups can provide guidance during the adjustment process.
This content is for information purposes only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Decisions on amputation and rehabilitation, as well as prosthetic fittings, are made at our licensed center locations in line with a specialist physician's assessment and prescription/medical report.
