What is an amputation?

An amputation is the loss or removal of a part of your body, such as an arm or leg. The loss of a limb can be a life-changing experience, but there is help and support available.

Why might an amputation be needed?

There are several reasons why someone might need to have an amputation. These can include:

• diabetes complications
• peripheral vascular disease (narrowing of the arteries leading to your legs and feet)
• other causes of severely reduced blood supply to the limb
• severe infection
• cancer
• serious injury

Many people can use a prosthesis (artificial limb) or mobility device to regain function after an amputation.

How can I prepare for surgery?

Amputations can be done as emergency or elective (planned) surgery. Finding out that you are facing an amputation can be difficult and scary.

Before planned amputations, you will meet with your surgeon. They will discuss the operation with you and any preparation needed. It can help to take a relative or friend with you to these appointments.

It can also help to make a list of questions before your appointment. This is so that you can discuss these with your doctor or other healthcare providers.

Preparation for an amputation may include:

• a thorough medical examination
• a psychological assessment
• making adaptations to your home or work environment

What happens during and after amputation surgery?

Your surgeon will remove your limb, or part of the limb under anaesthetic. An anaesthetist (specialist doctor) will discuss with you beforehand what type of anaesthetic will be best for you.

The wound will be closed with stitches or staples. A drain may be inserted under your skin to drain away excess fluid. Your wound will be covered with a wound dressing and bandage.

Pain control

Your wound will be sore after surgery, but this should start to ease in 2 to 5 days. Pain relievers can be used to keep you comfortable after your surgery.

You may feel what is known as 'phantom limb' pain. This means you feel pain in the amputated limb, even though it is no longer there.

Some people also have ‘phantom sensations’, meaning they can still feel the limb that has been removed. You may have sensations such as:

• pins and needles
• itching
• tingling sensations

Phantom limb pain and sensations are common and may last for a few weeks after your amputation. If phantom limb pain persists or is very uncomfortable, speak with your doctor.

What rehabilitation is needed after an amputation?

Rehabilitation will help you recover and regain your independence.

Usually, several healthcare members will be involved in your care, including a:

• rehabilitation doctor
• nursing team
• occupational therapist
• physiotherapist
• prosthetist (healthcare worker who looks after the design and fit of a prosthesis)
• social worker

Your physiotherapist and occupational therapist will work out a rehabilitation program to help you return to work and other activities.

The program will start a few days after surgery. It will help you manage independently, for example by teaching you how to get in and out of a wheelchair.

You may then progress to an exercise program and learn how to use your prosthetic limb if you have one.

Your physiotherapist will also work with you to keep your joints as mobile as possible. This is to help prevent contractures, where your muscles, skin, tendons or ligaments become shortened and stiff. Contractures can limit how you move. The more you move and exercise, the less likely you will be to develop a contracture.

Prosthesis

You may be able to have a prosthetic (false) limb fitted after your surgery. Your prosthetist and healthcare team will help you prepare for this.

Psychological support

For some people, losing a limb is like losing a loved one and they will need to grieve. Coming to terms with the psychological impact of an amputation is just as important as coping with the physical changes.

Peer support can be helpful — peer support volunteers are people who have experienced and lived with limb loss.

It can also help to join a support group, either in-person or online. Try talking to friends and family about how you are feeling and stay connected.

You may also benefit from professional support, such as seeing a psychologist or counsellor. Talk to you doctor if you have ongoing feelings of:

• anger
• irritability
• denial or grief
• anxiety or depression

Life after an amputation

Amputation can affect every area of your life, including your home and work. It’s a lot to adapt to, and you will need support.

You may need modifications to your home, or equipment such as:

• a stair-ramp
• handrails
• a wheelchair lift
• a modified car

You may need to change your routines and find new ways to do the things you are used to doing. The right help, training and equipment will make it easier for you to adapt.

Resources and support

Limbs 4 Life offers support and information on prosthetics and recovery to empower people who have had an amputation.

Further support is available from:

• Lifeline — for crisis support, phone 13 11 14
• SANE Australia — Helpline 1800 187 263
• Beyond Blue — phone 1300 22 4636

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.