amputee

An amputee is a person who has undergone an amputation—the surgical removal of all or part of a limb. Amputations may result from traumatic injury, severe infection, tumors, or vascular disease, and can also be performed for congenital limb absence. The term describes the person, not the limb.

Amputations are categorized by the limb involved and the level of removal. Lower-limb amputations are commonly transtibial or transfemoral, while upper-limb amputations include transradial and transhumeral levels. Amputations can involve partial foot or hand removals, or disarticulations at joints.

After surgery, rehabilitation focuses on wound healing, mobility training, and adapting to life with a prosthesis. Many people receive a socket-based limb prosthesis offering control through body movement or electrical signals. Advanced devices may be myoelectric, body-powered, or implanted via osseointegration.

Phantom limb sensations are common after amputation, and may include feelings that the limb is still present or painful. Treatments include physical therapy, mirror therapy, medications, and neurostimulation approaches. Psychological support and peer networks can aid adjustment and coping.

Prosthetic availability and rehabilitation access influence outcomes. Societal factors such as accessibility, employment opportunities, and stigma shape quality of life for amputees. Ongoing research aims to improve prosthetic function, comfort, and integration into everyday activities.