Why is this procedure done?
Below-the-knee amputation is a surgery to remove the leg below the knee. This is done when: ‚
- The leg was injured and cannot be repaired
- There is an infection in the leg that may spread if not removed
- Blood flow to the leg is very poor
- There is a tumor on the ankle or foot
- The leg is deformed and you have problems walking or pain when walking
The doctor will decide where the cut needs to be on the leg based on your condition. A cut below the knee keeps the knee joint. ‚
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What will the results be?
Your doctor will remove your damaged part of your leg. You may be able to use an artificial leg called a prosthesis. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Sometimes, this surgery is done in an emergency. Then, no preparation is needed. ‚
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- The surgery and how you will get around afterwards. You may need to learn to use crutches or a wheelchair.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may:
- Order lab tests or other tests
- Have you measured for an artificial leg. This is called a prosthesis.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery. When you are asleep, the doctors put a tube in your mouth to help you breathe.
- The doctor makes a cut in the skin below your knee. The muscles are parted and blood vessels clamped. The doctor uses a special saw to cut through the bones. Next, the doctor shapes the muscles so an end is made to cushion the bone. The doctor carefully places the nerves so they dont cause pain and the skin is closed with stitches. This forms the stump. Sometimes, the doctor will put drains into the stump. They stay in for the first few days after surgery. This is to help get rid of extra blood or fluid from surgery.
- The wound is covered by a dressing and a compression stocking. How long the surgery takes depends on your condition.
What happens after the procedure?
You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely. You may have to stay in the hospital for 4 to 10 days. ‚
You will: ‚
- Be given drugs to prevent infection.
- Be given drugs to help with pain.
- Start physical therapy within 48 hours of surgery.
- Move your stump to keep your blood flowing well and to prevent stiffness.
- Use a wheelchair, walker, or crutches to help you move around.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
You may have to make some lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor about what is needed. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent infection
- Prevent blood clots
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Heart problems or stroke
- Slow healing of the wound
- Swelling of the stump
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Painful feeling that the foot or toe is still there. This is phantom pain.
- Low mood or worry
- Body image problems
- Need for more surgery
Where can I learn more?
Amputee Coalition ‚
http://www.amputee-coalition.org/inmotion/jan_feb_11/first_twelve_months_lower.pdf ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Amputation/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Society of Vascular Surgery ‚
http://www.vascularweb.org/vascularhealth/Pages/Amputation.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚