Definition of Amputation
Amputation is the surgical removal of a body part, such as a finger, arm, or leg. This operation aims to control pain or disease that attacks certain body parts.
This procedure can be done on an emergency or planned basis. Emergency amputation is usually needed when the patient has a serious accident that requires immediate treatment. Meanwhile, planned amputation is done after the doctor and patient consider various factors.
The Reason Behind the Suggestion of Amputation
Amputation is generally the last option recommended by doctors. There are several special considerations in making this decision, namely:
- The appearance of gangrene or dead skin tissue.
- Severe infection that doesn't get better even after treatment. For example, wounds on the feet of people with diabetes are difficult to heal.
- Cancer is found in that part of the body, for example in bone or muscle tissue.
- The pain is unbearable that persists and the disability is so severe that it is unable to function.
- Serious injuries, such as severe burns, blast injuries, or animal bites.
- Frostbite or frostbite.
Diagnosis Before Amputation
Before surgery, the doctor will examine your condition to determine the type of amputation process that will be carried out. The following are some of the inspection methods that are generally recommended:
- Thorough medical examination to check physical condition, kidney function, heart health, respiratory system function, and nutritional adequacy.
- Evaluation of psychiatric conditions to assess whether the patient can cope with the psychological and emotional impact of the amputation that will be undergone. If needed, the doctor will recommend the patient to undergo psychotherapy after the amputation.
- Examination of the condition and function of the leg to be amputated, for example checking the pulse and the level of sensitivity of the skin around the part to be cut. This process will help the doctor determine how much to cut or tissue to remove, while reducing the risk of complications and other amputations that may occur in the future.
In addition to the patient's physical and mental condition, the doctor will also ask about the condition of the house, family, and environment. These factors will have an impact on the patient's life during and after the recovery period.
Amputations and Prostheses
If you decide to use a prosthesis or prosthetic limb, your doctor will help you choose the type that suits your needs. Factors that should be considered are:
- The type of amputation performed.
- Overall health condition.
- Muscle strength in the remaining limbs.
- The function and shape of the prosthetic limb required by the patient. Prosthetic limbs with proper function and shape for the patient can speed up the rehabilitation process.
Amputation Surgery
In the amputation process, the doctor will cut the part of the body that requires amputation as well as remove the damaged tissue. Amputations are generally performed while the patient is under anaesthesia. The type of anesthesia will be determined based on the part of the patient's body that requires amputation.
Epidural anesthesia will be given if the patient is about to undergo an amputation of a lower leg (such as a calf or toe). Upper limb amputations (eg, hands or fingers) usually require general anesthesia.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Period After Amputation
During the recovery period at the hospital, patients will be taught how to treat surgical wounds so that they can do it themselves at home. For example, how to clean wounds and change bandages.
Mild physical therapy will be recommended shortly after the amputation surgery. The patient will then practice using the prosthetic limb two weeks after surgery.
The ideal duration of wound healing is one to two months. However, losing body parts definitely requires physical and mental adaptation in a long time.
Rehabilitation is a crucial step during the recovery period. This process generally includes:
- Therapy for strength training and muscle control.
- Occupational therapy for the ability to carry out daily activities.
- Practice using prosthetic limbs and other aids to get used to it.
It is also important to take care of the remaining limbs, especially keeping the skin clean to avoid irritation or infection. The following are signs of infection to watch out for:
- Red and sensitive skin.
- There is swelling or swelling that gets worse.
- Discharge or pus from the skin.
Wash the remaining leg at least once a day with a non-perfumed soap. Apply moisturizer before going to bed or before using prosthetic limbs. Cleaning the prosthetic limb used is also an additional step that is no less important to avoid irritation and infection.
Amputation Complications
The wound healing process will also be monitored by a doctor to prevent complications. Planned amputations have a lower risk of complications than emergency amputations. Several types of complications that may occur, for example:
- Wound infection.
- Wounds that take a long time to heal.
- Blood clotting.
- Complications of the heart, such as a heart attack.
- Phantom pain is pain that is felt in organs that are no longer owned.
- Psychological disorders, such as depression, not being able to accept reality, and even suicidal ideation.