Amputatio

Amputatio is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of a limb. The term stems from Latin, meaning to cut off. Modern indications include severe trauma, infection or gangrene, malignant tumors, vascular disease with nonviable tissue, and congenital limb deficiencies. Amputation levels are described by the segment removed (for example transtibial below the knee, transfemoral above the knee, transradial below the elbow, transhumeral above the elbow).

Indications depend on tissue viability and rehabilitation potential. Lower-extremity amputations are commonly performed for peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, or irreparable trauma; upper-extremity amputations for nonfunctional or cancerous limbs. Preoperative assessment includes imaging, vascular studies, and consideration of prosthetic options and patient goals.

During surgery, the limb is removed with attention to preserving soft tissue for wound healing and prosthetic fitting. Nerves, muscles, and skin flaps are managed to minimize pain and maximize function. Postoperative care includes wound care, pain control, infection prevention, limb shaping, and early mobilization to begin rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation focuses on wound healing, preventing contractures, and training with a prosthesis. Functional results depend on limb level, cause, age, and access to rehabilitation. Phantom limb sensations are common and may respond to therapy and pharmacologic treatment.

Complications include infection, hematoma, wound dehiscence, stump necrosis, neuroma, contractures, and chronic pain. Advances in anesthesia, antisepsis, vascular surgery, and prosthetic technology have improved outcomes. The term amputatio has a long history in medical Latin describing limb removal.