How long is recovery from above knee amputation?
Your residual limb may heal as soon as 4 to 8 weeks after surgery. But it may take longer. The physical rehab can sometimes start within 48 hours of your surgery. It may last as long as 1 year.
Is above the knee amputation a major surgery?
An above-the-knee amputation is a major surgery that will have a significant impact on the rest of your life.
Why are legs amputated above the knee?
Transfemoral (above knee) amputation is a surgical procedure performed to remove the lower limb at or above the knee joint when that limb has been severely damaged via trauma, disease, or congenital defect.
What happens after amputation above the knee?
The leg may be swollen for at least 4 weeks after your surgery. If you have a rigid dressing or cast, your doctor will set up regular visits to change the dressing or cast and check the healing. If you have elastic bandages, your doctor will tell you how to change them. You may have pain in your remaining limb.
What happens after an above the knee amputation?
What are the risks of above knee amputation?
Possible Complications
- Excess bleeding.
- Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing or sore throat.
- Infection.
- Blood clots.
- Skin breakdown and swelling of the remaining limb.
- Poor healing that may result in further amputation.
- Feeling pain in the amputated limb or feeling that it is still there.
How long do leg amputees stay in hospital?
An amputation usually requires a hospital stay of five to 14 days or more, depending on the surgery and complications. The procedure itself may vary, depending on the limb or extremity being amputated and the patient’s general health.
What is an above-the-knee amputation?
An above-the-knee amputation is surgery to remove your leg above the knee. Your doctor removed the leg while keeping as much healthy bone, skin, blood vessel, and nerve tissue as possible.
What happens after an above the knee leg amputation?
Your doctor removed the leg while keeping as much healthy bone, skin, blood vessel, and nerve tissue as possible. After an above-the-knee leg amputation, you will probably have bandages, a rigid dressing, or a cast over the remaining part of your leg (residual limb).
What is the best exercise program for knee amputation?
Above Knee Amputation: Positioning and Exercise Program – 2 – • Don’t put pillows between your thighs Exercise 1: Gluteal Sets— Squeeze your buttocks together. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Relax. Repeat. Exercise 2: Hip Extension— Pull your non-operative leg up to your chest with your hands. Push your residual limb down into the bed.
What happens if you fail to comply with an amputation?
Failure to comply may result in legal action. Above the knee amputation is surgery to remove your leg above your knee cap. You may need an amputation because of an injury, a tumor, or an infection. Problems with your leg veins or arteries, or complications of diabetes may also cause you to need an amputation.