Leg amputation is the surgical removal of legs either above or below the knee. This surgery is carried out as a result of poor blood circulation because of damage or narrowing of the arteries. As a result the blood cells in these region get deprived of oxygen and nutrients which in turn lead to infection and necrosis of the tissues.

Amputation is also carried out due to injuries from accidents and burns, infections which are incurable with antibiotics,blood clots, cancerous tumor at the region, diabetes and nerve thickening and to prevent the disease from spreading farther into the body. The purpose of the surgery is to restore one’s ability to function and improving total health.

The procedure for amputation is done under general anesthesia  or with spinal anesthesia.

 TYPES

1. Above the knee amputation: lt is also called a trans femoral amputation. Here the amputation occurs at the middle part of the thigh bone. After this type of amputation knee joint will not be present. Here walking with a prosthesis post surgery will be difficult.
2. Below knee amputation: It also known as a trans tibial amputation and is the most common type. Here the knee joint will be present and walking with a prosthesis is more comfortable.
3. Hemipelvic amputation: Here the hip-joint and part of the pelvis is amputated. It also known as a trans pelvic amputation. It is mostly done in case of a malignant tumor at the region. Here walking with a prosthesisis difficult
4. Toe amputation: Here the toe is amputated due to poor supply of blood to the toe.
5. Partial foot amputation: Here the toes and part of the long bones of the foot are amputated. This is also known as a trans metatarsal amputation.
6. Disarticulation: Here amputation occurs through a joint. It helps to preserve the growth plate in the bone in a child.