Amputation
An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, such as an arm or leg.
This topic may be helpful if you or a member of your family has recently had an amputation or is about to have one.
Why amputation may be needed
An amputation may be needed if:
- you have a severe infection in your limb
- your limb has been affected by gangrene(often as a result of peripheral arterial disease)
- there's serious trauma to your limb, such as a crush or blast wound
- your limb is deformed and has limited movement and function