Amputation

Amputation is a serious medical procedure aimed at removing a damaged limb or part of it. The main goal is to preserve the patient's health and improve the quality of life. Amputation is a last resort, undertaken only when other effective treatment methods have been exhausted. Such surgery can be vital to prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition and the spread of infection.

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, under the direction of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, specializes in amputations, providing patients with the highest level of care and attention.

When Is Amputation Recommended?

The procedure may be necessary when conservative treatment fails and there is a threat to life or health. Amputation may be recommended in a number of cases for many reasons that can affect the tissues of the limbs. These are:

• complications of diabetes - diabetic foot;
• severe trauma to the legs, feet or ankles;
• peripheral arterial disease;
• severe infections of the lower extremities that cannot be cured;
• malignant tumors in the lower extremities.

It is important to realize that timely removal of diseased tissue can save lives and prevent more serious complications.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparation for amputation includes a number of important steps that help ensure the success of the surgery and the patient's subsequent recovery.

Main recommendations for preparation

Diagnostic procedures

Before the operation, a complete medical examination is performed, including:

• blood and urine tests - to assess the patient's general health and identify possible contraindications to surgery;
• X-rays and MRI: for a detailed study of the state of bones and soft tissues, determining the exact extent of the necessary intervention;
• angiography: to assess the blood supply to the lower limbs and identify areas with insufficient blood flow, which is especially important for patients with vascular disease or diabetes.

Counseling

1. Consultation with the surgeon: Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, will explain to the patient in detail the purpose and course of the upcoming surgery, possible risks and expected results.
2. Consultation with an anesthesiologist: discuss options for anesthesia and anesthesia to identify possible allergic reactions.
3. Psychological support: in some cases, patients may require the assistance of a psychologist. This is especially important for those who are facing amputation of a significant portion of a limb.

Preoperative measures

• Medical preparation: prescription of certain medications to prevent infections and reduce the risk of thrombosis. Discussion with the doctor about current medications and possible temporary discontinuation of them.
• Diet and hydration. Patients are advised to follow a special diet a few days before surgery and to follow a hydration regimen. 
• Physical preparation. Prescribing exercises to strengthen the muscles of the upper limbs and the opposite leg to facilitate the rehabilitation process and the use of prostheses after amputation.

It is important to prepare the house in advance and organize assistance, ensure the availability of necessary means and equipment (crutches or wheelchair).

The Amputation Procedure

Amputation is a complex surgical procedure that is performed in stages, taking into account specific medical indications and the patient's condition.

The main stages of the operation

1. Preoperative preparation: introduction of anesthesia - general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the operation and the patient's condition.
2. Marking and access: marking the incision line on the skin to accurately determine the boundaries of amputation and preserving the maximum possible amount of healthy tissue.
3. Incision and soft tissue separation: skin and soft tissue incisions are made. Vessels and nerves are ligated or coagulated to prevent bleeding and pain after surgery.
4. Bone removal: special instruments are used to cut the bone at a predetermined location.
5. Stump processing and shaping: soft tissues are processed and shaped so that the stumps have a smooth, even surface. The skin is stretched and sutured, leaving a small drain for fluid drainage.
6. Completion of the operation: a sterile dressing is applied to the incision site.

Types of amputations

1. Toe amputation: removal of one or more toes of the foot. Most often performed for severe infections or tissue necrosis caused by diabetes or trauma.
2. Foot amputation: may involve removing the forefoot or mid-foot. This type of amputation preserves its functionality and allows the use of prostheses for walking.
3. Heel amputation: may be necessary for severe infections or necrosis of this area. Depending on the extent of the lesion, it may be necessary to remove part or all of the heel bone.
4. Ankle amputation (Syme amputation): removal of the foot at the level of the ankle while preserving the ankle joint. Syme amputation preserves the length of the leg and improves stability when using prostheses.

Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, and his team at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic perform the surgery in a patient-centered manner, providing the highest level of professionalism and care.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after amputation requires a comprehensive approach including medical care, rehabilitation, use of prostheses, physical therapy and psychological support.

Rehabilitation takes place in several stages

Medical care

• In the first few days after surgery, the focus is on pain control, infection prevention and wound care. The medical staff changes the dressings regularly and monitors the condition of the residual limb.
• Gradually, the patient is allowed to start moving, first in bed, then through the use of crutches or a wheelchair. It is important to remain active to prevent thrombosis and muscle atrophy.
• The patient is familiarized with the care of the residual limb - keeping it clean to prevent ulcers, infections or other complications.

Use of prostheses

• Once the residual limb has healed, the specialists measure and make an individual prosthesis that corresponds to the patient's anatomical features.
• The patient undergoes a training course - putting on and taking off the prosthesis, mastering basic movements (standing, walking, climbing stairs).

Physiotherapy

• The physiotherapist develops an individualized exercise program to strengthen muscles, improve coordination and restore mobility. Applies various techniques (massage, compression bandages and lymphatic drainage) to reduce pain and swelling in the residual limb.

Psychological support

• Amputation can be a serious emotional ordeal for the patient. Counseling with a psychologist can help with anxiety, depression, and adjusting to the new environment.

The team at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic provides comprehensive support and care for patients during all stages of recovery. Patients receive regular check-ups with the surgeon and other specialists to monitor the condition of the residual limb, prosthesis and overall health.

Benefits of Amputation at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, under the direction of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, provides patients with highly skilled medical care that includes all aspects of amputation and subsequent recovery.

The main advantages of amputation in our clinic are as follows

1. Highly qualified specialist
2. Modern equipment and technologies
3. Comprehensive rehabilitation and support
4. Individual selection of prostheses and training
5. Advanced pain management techniques
6. Comprehensive long-term follow-up care

By choosing Illinois Foot & Ankle for amputation care, patients receive comprehensive medical care, support and care at all stages of treatment, which contributes to a quick and successful recovery.