During above the knee amputation, the leg is surgically removed due to a serious injury or disease. The incision is made above the knee.
Also Known As:
- Amputation
- Leg amputation
- Mid-thigh leg amputation
- High thigh leg amputation
- Supracondylar leg amputation
Conditions Treated with Above the Knee Amputation:
Above the knee amputation is utilized in cases of osteomyelitis, bone cancer, severe deformities, gangrene and injury to bones, muscles, nerves, or arteries.
There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to above the knee amputation.
Anesthesia with Above the Knee Amputation:
Above the knee amputation is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Above the Knee Amputation:
Possible risks following above the knee amputation include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible to experience phantom limb pain, blood clots, stroke and heart attack.
Prognosis after Above the Knee Amputation:
The prognosis for a positive end result following above the knee amputation is varied. One in five to one in ten patients suffering from atherosclerosis reportedly do not survive following a major amputation.
Recovery from Above the Knee Amputation:
Recovery from above the knee amputation takes about four to six weeks physically. However, the emotional adjustment can be a lengthy process.