Complications Post Amputation
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Original Editor - Lauren Newcombe
Top Contributors - Sheik Abdul Khadir, Tarina van der Stockt, Admin, Tony Lowe, Kim Jackson, Aicha Benyaich, Lauren Lopez, Andeela Hafeez, Olajumoke Ogunleye, Rachael Lowe and Naomi O'Reilly
Introduction[edit | edit source]
As with any surgery, having an amputation carries a risk of complications. Surgeons will aim to reconstruct the limb to the best of their ability, taking into account soft tissue viability, bone length and other anatomical considerations. However, underlying disease state and post-operative management can result in complications, the most common of which are:
- Oedema
- Wounds and infection
- Pain
- Muscle weakness and contractures
- Joint instability
- Autonomic dysfunction
Oedema[edit | edit source]
Stump oedema occurs as a result of trauma and the handling of tissues during surgery [1] . After amputation, there is an imbalance between fluid transfer across the capillary membranes and lymphatic reabsorption [2] . This, in combination with reduced muscle tone and inactivity, can lead to stump oedema.
The complications that can arise from stump oedema include wound breakdown, pain, reduced mobility and difficulties with prosthetic fitting .[3]
Numerous interventions are used across the country to manage and prevent stump oedema, including,compression socks, rigid removable dressings, exercise and PPAM aiding. The BACPAR post operative oedema guidance(2012) details the evidence behind these interventions and recommends the use of rigid removable dressings where expertise, time and resources allow.
The following video by Ossur shows an example of the application of a rigid removable dressing.
Wounds and Infection
[edit | edit source]
Pain[edit | edit source]
Muscle weakness, muscle contractures and joint instability[edit | edit source]
Autonomic Dysfunction[edit | edit source]
References
[edit | edit source]
- ↑ BACPAR post operative oedema guidance 2012
- ↑ Airaksinen, O., Kolari, P.J., Herve, R. and Holopainen, R. (1988) Treatment of post- traumatic oedema in lower legs using intermittent pneumatic compression. Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 20(1), pp.25-28
- ↑ Engstrom, B and Van de Ven, C (1999). Therapy for Amputees. Churchill Livingstone.
