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An amputation is a removal of all or a portion of a limb. A doctor may recommend this surgery approach due to chronic disease or a traumatic injury.

Advancements in preventive techniques have meant the rates of amputations overall have decreased in the United States, according to 2020 research. However, amputations related to chronic

conditions like diabetes have remained the same or sometimes higher.

or leg.

Ideally, if you need an amputation, a doctor will speak with you about the need for a certain location and prosthetic options.

The following are medical terms for certain amputation types.

According to 2020 research, the largest percentage of amputations are related to chronic disease that impairs blood flow and affects bone tissue. However, there are additional amputation

causes.

Chronic disease and infection can lead to interrupted blood flow that jeopardizes a limb. When this is the case, a doctor may recommend amputation to preserve as much of the limb as

possible.

Chronic conditions are a leading cause of lower extremity amputations. The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPMR) estimates that 93.4 percent of all lower extremity

amputations are related to vascular disease. This includes conditions such as diabetes and peripheral artery disease.

The most common lower extremity amputations related to blood flow conditions are:

Amputations due to chronic disease are associated with 5-year mortality rates that are higher than some cancer types. This is because the need for amputation in many instances can indicate a

person’s medical condition or overall health is worsening. Enhancing a person’s healthcare and overall health are excellent goals after amputation.

Cancer-related amputation accounts for 0.8 percent of total amputations. This is often due to bone cancer or cancer that has metastasized to the bone. However, cancer is the most common

amputation cause for those between the ages of 10 and 20.

Injuries and trauma can lead to amputations. An estimated 5.8 percent of lower limb amputations are related to trauma. This can include injuries from car accidents and workplace-related

accidents.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 6,200 work-related amputations happened in the United States in 2018. More than 58 percent of these involved using some type of machinery,

particularly metal and woodworking machinery.

Although you’ve already read some statistics related to amputation, here are a few more to consider from the Amputee Coalition, a nonprofit organization for amputees. They illustrate that if

you or a loved one requires an amputation, you are not alone.

Those with diabetes are 8 to 24 times more likely to undergo a lower limb amputation than those who do not have diabetes, according to the AAPMR.

There are also significant racial disparities related to amputations. The Amputee Coalition says African Americans are four times as likely as white Americans to have an amputation. Experts

are not sure why African Americans might have a higher risk, but this is likely due to social conditions rather than biological factors.

Because amputation removes a portion of the body that was naturally present, it’s easy to wonder how this affects your overall health. There are undeniably effects that can occur due to

amputation. It’s important to work with your doctor and physical therapist to minimize these effects whenever possible.

Often, the effects of an amputation are related to where it is and your overall health.

Amputations are surgical procedures that have risks involved. Also, if the amputation was the result of trauma or infection, you may have other medical conditions to recover from as well.

This can complicate recovery after amputation.

According to the AAPMR, some of the most common amputation complications include:

Another complication is joint contracture. This is when the remaining muscles, tendons, and other tissues tighten so much that you can’t move the remaining joint.

Amputation healing times can vary by the event that caused the amputation and the amputation site.

For example, amputations due to chronic conditions such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease may take longer to heal. Blood flow and wound healing are already impaired by these

conditions, which may extend recovery times.

A small 2018 study suggests it likely takes less time to recover from a toe amputation than a leg amputation. A surgeon should help you determine your expected recovery period.

It can take time to regain function after an amputation. Some individuals undergoing leg amputations reported it took as many as 6 months to regain their functional independence.

If you are wondering where amputated limbs go, you aren’t alone. Especially if you’re about to undergo an amputation, it’s fairly common to ask questions about how and where these limbs are

disposed of.

A 2019 study described four potential destinations for your limb after the procedure. The limb could be:

If you are unsure where your limb is going, you can ask your surgeon.

Healthcare professionals associate a strong support network with improved outcomes after amputation. Finding comfort with family and friends as well as community resources can help you

navigate life after an amputation.

You can also contact your local hospital for support groups that meet in person in your area.

Amputations can occur for many reasons, but most are related to chronic medical conditions that affect blood flow. If you do require an amputation, your surgeon should explain the type and

recovery expectations to you before the procedure.

There are many support groups available for those who’ve had an amputation. Many of them offer free online or in-person resources.

Although amputation is a common complication of diabetes, it's preventable. Here's what you need to know.

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