Amputation Wound Care Series What is it? Amputation is an operation to remove one part of the body such as a toe, foot or leg. It is performed to remove diseased tissue or relieve pain. What happens before the operation? You will be admitted at least one day before your surgery. You will also undergo a series of tests to ensure that you are fit for the surgery. These tests include: •
X-ray or ultrasound blood vessels (arteries) to confirm the blockage location
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Chest X-ray
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Blood test
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Electrocardiogram
What happens after the operation? •
You will be given pain killers by injection, or through a tube on
your back, or via a machine which you can control the dosage by pressing a button. •
Fluids are given by a drip through your veins till you are well enough to sit up to eat.
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A small tube is normally placed in your wound to drain off blood and fluid that builds up after surgery. This will usually be removed on the third day after your operation.
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Your amputated stump will be bandaged to reduce swelling and to control the shape of the stump.
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Your stitches will usually be removed between 14 to 21 days after your operation.
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You may still feel pain on the leg that has been removed. This is known as a ‘phantom limb pain’. Medication and exercises can help to reduce this sensation.