Comprehensive post-operative management after lower limb amputations: current concepts in rehabilitation / 中华医学教育探索杂志

ABSTRACT

The loss of a limb results in major disability and psychological trauma to the affected individual. Amputees of dysvascular origin usually have multiple co-morbidities and their complicated post-operative course frequently leads to a prolonged hospitalisation or a subsequent amputation in a higher level of the limb. The integrated comprehensive approach by a interdisciplinary team in post-operative management starts immediately after a limb amputation to assure successful surgical and functional outcomes. The programme comprises a variety of medical and rehabilitation aspects: to control acute medical co-morbidities, evaluate and alleviate different types of pain, optimal wound care, condition the residual limb to be well-fitted with a prosthesis, address patient’s functional goals and achieve maximal independence in mobility and self care, coach ideal coping skills and provide psychosocial support, and educate patient and family about risk factor modulation and residual limb care. Aggressive oedema control and early mobilisation became standardised practice in post-amputation care in view of a number of advantages.