What You Should Know About Amputations

One of the most traumatic procedures a person can go through is an amputation. An amputation is the removal of a limb.

Statistics show that there are more than 185,000 new amputations in the United States every year. Of these, 10% are due to complications from sepsis. Infection is common in amputations, especially when the amputation occurs below the knee. The use of skin clips and surgical drains increases the risk of infection in major limb amputation.

Our law firm has helped many people, and their families, cope with loss following traumatic injury and amputation. Medical specialists are needed for surgery, the prosthetic limbs, orthotics, physical therapy, wound care, and even psychologists. We like to think we help you get through by making sure your care is not overlooked or delayed, and we get you answers so you know what to expect. We have been through it before and can help you get through it all.

This year, we have a client who now has had 26 surgeries, and over one million in medical bills. To her credit she is a fighter, and a great sense of humor. We are so proud of her work to become whole again.

The amputation process involves multiple steps:

• The patient's overall health is thoroughly assessed. This may involve blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, and consultations with specialists.
• Psychological support is often provided to help the patient cope with losing a limb.
• The surgeon makes an incision around the limb. The goal is to remove the damaged tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue, bone, and skin as possible. The bone is cut. Muscles are often reshaped and repositioned to cover the bone. The wound is closed with sutures or staples, and the patient is given pain relief.
• The surgical site is monitored closely for signs of infection or complications. Rehabilitation begins as soon as possible, with exercises to maintain strength in the remaining limb and to prepare for prosthetic use if applicable.
• If a prosthetic limb is planned, the patient will be measured and fitted for one once the residual limb has healed.

How Doctors Decide if an Amputation is Needed

Doctors decide if a patient needs an amputation based on several critical factors, including the following:

• Severe trauma. In cases of severe injury, such as from an accident or battlefield injury, where the damage to the limb is so extensive that it cannot be repaired, amputation may be necessary to prevent further complications and save the patient's life.
• Poor blood circulation. Conditions like peripheral artery disease can severely restrict blood flow to the limbs, leading to tissue death. Amputation may be necessary if the affected area cannot be saved by restoring blood flow.
• Infection. Severe infections that do not respond to antibiotics or other treatments may require amputation.

Contact Our Kansas Personal Injury Attorney

Amputations are serious injuries that can lead to complications. It is a good idea to understand what to expect so you can keep your body as healthy as possible.

If you have suffered an amputation due to someone else’s negligence, Call or email Pat, a Salina personal injury attorney from Neustrom & Associates. We are proven courtroom winners who will fight to help you recover full compensation. Schedule a consultation by calling our office at (785) 825-1505.