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Alternative Names Return to top
Loss of a body partDefinition Return to top
Traumatic amputation is the loss of a body part -- usually a finger, toe, arm, or leg-- that occurs as the result of an accident or trauma.
Considerations Return to top
If an accident or trauma results in complete amputation (the body part is totally severed), the part sometimes can be reattached, especially when proper care is taken of the severed part and stump.
In a partial amputation, some soft-tissue connection remains. Depending on the severity of the injury, the partially severed extremity may or may not be able to be reattached.
There are various complications associated with amputation of a body part. The most important of these are bleeding, shock, and infection. (See wounds for more information.)
The long-term outcome for amputees has improved due to better understanding of the management of traumatic amputation, early emergency and critical care management, new surgical techniques, early rehabilitation, and new prosthetic designs. New limb replantation techniques have been moderately successful, but incomplete nerve regeneration remains a major limiting factor.
Often, the traumatic amputee will have a better outcome from having a well-fitting, functional prosthesis than a nonfunctional replanted limb.
Causes Return to top
Traumatic amputations usually result directly from factory, farm, or power tool accidents or from motor vehicle accidents. Natural disasters, war, and terrorist attacks can also cause traumatic amputations.
Symptoms Return to top
First Aid Return to top
DO NOT Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
If a victim severs a limb, finger, toe, or other body part, you should call immediately for emergency medical assistance.
Prevention Return to top
Use safety equipment when using factory, farm, or power tools. Wear seat belts when driving a motor vehicle. Always use good judgment and observe appropriate safety precautions.
Update Date: 9/26/2006 Updated by: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |