What is an amputation?
An amputation is the complete or partial surgical removal of part of the body, usually a limb.
Types of amputations
The type of amputation being performed will be discussed with you by the doctors before you have surgery.
The most common lower limb amputations are:
- Below knee amputation (trans-tibial) - the bottom section of the leg is removed, keeping the knee joint intact
- Above knee amputation (trans-femoral) - the leg is removed above the knee, at mid-thigh leve
Other types of lower limb amputation are:
- Digit amputation: one or multiple toes are removed
- Partial foot amputation: the toes and lower half of the foot are amputated, leaving the heel intact
- Knee disarticulation: the lower limb is removed through the middle of the knee joint
- Hip disarticulation: the lower limb is removed through the hip joint, removing the entire leg
- Hemipelvectomy: the entire leg and a section of the pelvis are removed
Therapy input following your operation
All patients who have a lower limb amputation will initially be dependent on a wheelchair for mobility.
It is important that you don’t start standing and walking following your amputation until you have been advised to do by your therapy staff.
This is to protect your stump, prevent damaging your remaining limb and to prevent you falling.
Your therapists will teach you how to get in and out of your wheelchair safely following your operation.
Occupational Therapist
Your occupational therapist may contact you before you are admitted for your operation. They will discuss your home situation and your current level of mobility with you.
This is to allow your discharge to be planned early and enable any equipment you might need to be ordered for you.
The occupational therapist will also discuss wheelchairs with you. If you do not already have one, they will measure and order one for you so that it is available for you to use after your operation. They will ensure that you can get in and out of your wheelchair and that you can manoeuvre your wheelchair safely.
Physiotherapist
Your physiotherapist will review you as soon as possible after your operation. You will be taught suitable exercises and they will ensure that you can safely move from the bed into your wheelchair.
Exercises
Exercises are important following your amputation to help you improve your muscle strength and maintain the movement in your joints.
Your physiotherapist will guide you on which exercises should be done and how many to complete. Only complete the exercises ticked in your leaflet.
All of the exercises should be done slowly and smoothly. If you feel any increase in pain or symptoms that you are worried about stop doing the exercises and tell your physiotherapist or doctor.
Therapy following discharge from hospital
You will be referred to your local limb fitting centre to be assessed for your suitability for an artificial leg. This will be discussed with you in depth at your initial appointment with them. Not all patients are suitable for an artificial leg and some people may only have one for cosmetic reasons.
You may also be referred to your local physiotherapy department for on-going amputee rehabilitation. You should also try to continue with the exercises taught to you by your physiotherapist on the ward.
It is very important that you do not attempt to stand or mobilise until you have been advised to by your physiotherapist.
Contact details
In-patient Therapy Office, Salford Royal Hospital
0161 206 4557
Ward B6, Salford Royal Hospital
0161 206 4574
Date of Review: January 2025
Date of Next Review: January 2027
Ref No: PI_SU_1553 (Salford)