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Prosthetic and Amputee Information

Here at First State DME we specialize in all types of prostheses for various types of amputation levels.  Consult your physician to start the process and discuss if a prosthesis could work for your unique needs.  

Types of Amputations

Below Knee

A below-knee amputation (BKA), also known as a transtibial amputation, is a surgical procedure that removes the lower leg, specifically below the knee joint. This is typically done when the lower leg has been severely damaged or diseased due to conditions like peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or trauma. The goal is to remove the problematic tissue while preserving as much healthy bone, skin, and tissue as possible to facilitate prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  • Purpose:

    BKAs are performed to address severe infections, injuries, or diseases that affect the lower leg and cannot be effectively treated with other methods. 

  • Procedure:

    The surgery involves removing the foot, ankle, and a portion of the tibia and fibula (lower leg bones), along with surrounding soft tissues. 

  • Why below the knee is preferred:

    BKAs are generally favored over above-knee amputations (AKAs) because they tend to result in better rehabilitation outcomes and improved functional abilities. 

  • Common causes:

    Peripheral artery disease, diabetes, and trauma are the most frequent reasons for BKA. 

  • Post-surgery:

    Patients typically require a period of hospitalization, followed by physical rehabilitation to learn how to use a prosthetic limb and regain mobility. 

  • Recovery:

    The recovery process can be lengthy, potentially taking up to a year, and may involve managing pain, including phantom pain, and adapting to a new way of moving.

Above Knee

An above-knee amputation (AKA), also known as transfemoral amputation, is a surgical procedure where a leg is removed above the knee joint. This is typically done due to severe injury, infection, or disease, and the remaining limb (residual limb) is often fitted with a prosthesis to restore function and mobility. 

Reasons for Above-Knee Amputation: 

  • Tumors: Malignant tumors in the leg can require amputation to prevent spread. 

  • Trauma: Severe injuries from accidents or other trauma can necessitate amputation. 

  • Infection: Untreatable infections, especially in cases of severe tissue damage or diabetes, may require amputation. 

  • Vascular Disease: Conditions like peripheral artery disease, where blood flow is restricted, can lead to tissue death (necrosis) and necessitate amputation. 

What to Expect After Surgery:

  • Prosthetic Fitting:

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    After the residual limb has healed, a prosthesis can be fitted to help the individual regain mobility. 

  • Rehabilitation:

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    Rehabilitation with physical and occupational therapists is essential for learning to use the prosthesis, regaining strength, and adapting to a new way of living. 

Life After Above-Knee Amputation: 

  • Mobility:

    Individuals with above-knee amputations can regain mobility with the help of prosthetics and assistive devices like wheelchairs and crutches.

  • Adaptation:

    It takes time and effort to adapt to the physical and psychological challenges of limb loss.

  • Support:

    Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals is crucial for emotional and practical support during the recovery process.

Upper Extremity

An upper extremity amputation is the surgical removal of part or all of an arm, forearm, or hand. It can be a result of trauma, disease, or congenital conditions. The specific level of amputation (e.g., finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder) impacts the subsequent rehabilitation and prosthetic options. 

More Details:

  • Levels of Amputation:

    Upper extremity amputations can occur at various levels, including:

    • Fingers/Partial Hand: Removal of one or more fingers or part of the hand. 

    • Wrist Disarticulation: Amputation through the wrist joint. 

    • Transradial: Amputation below the elbow. 

    • Elbow Disarticulation: Amputation through the elbow joint. 

    • Transhumeral: Amputation above the elbow. 

    • Shoulder Disarticulation: Amputation through the shoulder joint. 

    • Forequarter Amputation: Removal of the entire arm, shoulder, and collarbone. 

  • Causes:

    • Trauma: Accidents, injuries, and burns can necessitate amputation. 

    • Disease: Conditions like cancer, infection, and vascular disease can lead to amputation. 

    • Congenital Conditions: Some individuals are born with limb differences or deficiencies that may require amputation. 

  • Rehabilitation:

    Upper extremity amputation requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program that may include:

    • Prosthetic Training: Fitting and training with a prosthetic limb to restore function. 

    • Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the remaining limb and improve range of motion. 

    • Occupational Therapy: Training in daily living activities and adapting to using a prosthesis. 

    • Psychological Support: Addressing the emotional and psychological impact of limb loss. 

  • Prosthetics:

    Prosthetic options vary depending on the level of amputation and individual needs. They can range from basic hooks to advanced myoelectric devices that respond to muscle signals. 

Partial Foot

A partial foot amputation is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the foot, either the toes, metatarsals, or a section of the midfoot, while preserving the ankle joint. It's a type of amputation performed when a portion of the foot is damaged or diseased and cannot be salvaged, often due to conditions like diabetes, trauma, or infection. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

What it involves:

Why it's done:

Benefits of partial foot amputation:

Hip Disarticulation

A hip disarticulation is a surgical procedure where the entire lower limb is removed at the hip joint, effectively separating the leg from the pelvis. This amputation is considered a radical procedure and is typically reserved for situations where other options are not feasible, such as severe trauma, infection, or certain types of cancer. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  • Indications:

    It's often a last-resort option for cases where the limb is severely damaged or diseased, and preserving it is not possible. 

  • Reasons for the Procedure:

    Common reasons include trauma (like accidents), severe infection, or tumors (like osteosarcoma). 

  • Considerations:

    Because of its radical nature, hip disarticulation is not a common procedure and is associated with higher risks and challenges, especially in terms of prosthetic rehabilitation. 

  • Radical Amputation:

    Hip disarticulation is one of the most extensive lower extremity amputations, removing the entire leg from the hip joint. 

  • Joint-Level Removal:

    Unlike other amputations that might involve cutting through bone, a hip disarticulation removes the limb by separating it at the hip joint capsule. 

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