Residual Limb And Amputation Wounds
Stump and Amputation Wounds
A stump wound is a wound that is caused by the removal of a limb through amputation. It is typically a deep, bloody wound that extends all the way down to the bone. Stump wounds are very painful and can take weeks or even months to heal properly. In some cases, they can become infected, which can lead to serious complications. Amputation wounds are also very dangerous because they can easily become infected. If an infection occurs, it can quickly spread to the rest of the body and cause sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you think you have an infection in your stump wound.
Complex HealthCare Solutions’ plastic and reconstructive surgeon provide proper treatment for the procedure for amputations and health-related issues.
Prevalence
Around one million limbs Amputations occur every year across the globe. In the year 2017, 57.7 million people were living with traumatized amputations. According to the Amputee Coalition, about 185,000 amputations are reported throughout the United States each year. Also, as of April 2021, it is estimated that the United States has over 2 million Americans who suffer from amputations, while another 28 million people are in danger of having surgery Amputations due to unresolved causes.
Information provided by Stanford Healthcare shows a 49 percent increase in the overall number of amputations during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 until February 2021.
Causes of Amputations
Many situations can cause amputation.
- Gangrene
- Acute infection with extensive tissue damage
- Traumas resulting from accidents or injury include blast or crush wounds.
- Pediatric and congenital limb deficiency amputations for conversion
- Congenital extra digits or limbs
- Necrosis or Necrotizing Fasciitis
- Congenital deformities of digits or limbs
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Frostbite
- Cellulitis
- Malignant/ cancerous tumor in bone or muscle of the limb e.g., Osteosarcoma
- Conditions that affect blood flow, such as, Diabetes
Surgical Approaches to Amputation
Amputation is the removal of a limb or extremity by trauma, prolonged constriction, infection, or surgery. As a last resort, amputation may be performed to remove an irreversibly diseased or damaged limb. Surgical approaches to amputation have evolved over time in order to minimize blood loss, lower the risk of infection, and promote healing. The most common type of amputation today is a transcutaneous amputation, which is performed through an incision in the skin. Another common approach is a periosteal amputation, in which the bone is severed and the soft tissue is left intact. In some cases, it may also be necessary to perform an ostectomy, in which part of the bone is removed along with the soft tissue. Amputations are complex procedures that require careful planning and execution. However, they may be lifesaving in certain circumstances.
Our Orthopedic and oncologic surgeons collaborate alongside plastic and reconstructive surgeons and various surgical technologists and nurses to carry out an operation for surgical amputation. Together, they will remove the injured body part and use the remaining bone and tissue from the stump. The surgical team might shape the soft tissue near the end of the limb to fit a prosthetic device or keep bone in place for the subsequent process of osseointegration (OI).
Healing and Wound Care After Amputation
After an amputation, it is important to take care of the wound and monitor for infection. The wound will likely be covered with a dressing, which will need to be changed regularly. It is also important to keep the wound clean and dry, and to make sure that it does not become too tight or too loose. The stump will also need to be regularly inspected for signs of infection. In addition, it is important to keep the area around the stump clean and free from any potential irritants. Complex Healthcare Solutions can provide you with expert guidance on how to care for your wound and stump after an amputation. We can also provide you with the necessary supplies and equipment to help you heal properly. Contact us today to learn more about our healing and wound care services.