An amputation is a removal of a body part, through surgery or trauma. It can be a medical option to limit existing disease or as a preventative measure to stop the spread of future disease. Additionally, amputation is used as a punishment in some countries, as a war tactic, or as a religious ritual accomplishment.
The history of limb loss began with trauma, or the non-surgical loss of body parts. In the 15th century, doctors began intervening, mainly on gangrenous limbs or ones that were already injured badly. However, at this point in history, controlling infection and preventing excessive blood loss were major challenges. Therefore, amputations were performed as rarely as possible. In the 19th century, blood loss control was improved as well as inclusion of anesthesia in the 1840’s. In the 1860’s, infection prevention became more effective, leading to increased confidence on the part of the medical community. In the 20th century, the rising level of health care and development of prosthetic limbs helped amputation patients live better, healthier lives after surgery.
Reasons for amputation included diabetic foot infection or gangrene. These two situations represent the most common reasons for modern day amputations. Additionally, cancerous bone or soft tissue tumors, circulation problems, bone infections, and severe limb injuries, where all attempts to save the limb have failed, are common reasons for the loss of extremities. The first step in amputations is to cut off the supplying artery or vein to the area to prevent hemorrhaging. The muscles of the limb are then severed and the bone is sawed through with an oscillating saw. The skin and muscle flaps are then wrapped around the exposed internal portion of the body.
Depending on the cause of amputation, emotional trauma can occur, especially if the limb loss is due to a catastrophic injury. Severe physical limitations can be caused by the amputation, improved by time as the patient learns to cope with the change or the introduction of a prosthetic limb. A large percentage of amputees, at least 50%, experience the phantom limb phenomenon. Patients can feel the limb, even though it is no longer there. The limbs itch, ache, burn, feel wet and dry, feel tense and like they are being used in movement.
Amputations create life-long changes for people who lose a limb, whether it because of disease or a major, unexpected injury. If you are interested in learning more, this website concerning catastrophic injuries and amputations can provide more helpful information.
Joseph Devine
Tags: catastrophic injuries, gangrene, limb loss, amputations
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