If the popliteal pulse is present before operation, below-knee amputation should succeed. The absence of a popliteal pulse, however, does not exclude below-knee amputation. 4. Below-knee stumps should be about four inches long in amputations for peripheral vascular disease.

Which is better below or above knee amputation?

A below the knee amputation (BKA) is a transtibial amputation that involves removing the foot, ankle joint, distal tibia, fibula, and corresponding soft tissue structures. In general, below the knee amputations are associated with better functional outcomes than above the knee amputations.

Why do they amputate above the knee?

Above the knee amputation is surgery to remove your leg above your knee cap. You may need an amputation because of an injury, a tumor, or an infection. Problems with your leg veins or arteries, or complications of diabetes may also cause you to need an amputation.

When should you amputate below the knee?

After a severe injury to the lower leg, an amputation may be recommended immediately or after attempts to save the limb leaves the patient with significant pain or functional limitations. Other reasons for amputation can include non-healing ulcers, chronic pain, birth defects, and tumor.

Can you walk after above knee amputation?

Any amputation is life-altering, but people with bilateral above-knee amputations face a particularly complicated process of physical and emotional rehabilitation. The long-term goal is usually being able to walk again with prosthetic legs.

How long is surgery for above the knee amputation?

The surgery will take about 45 to 90 minutes.

How long after below the knee amputation can you get a prosthetic?

Some individuals receive a temporary prosthesis immediately following amputation or within two to three weeks after surgery. Usually, a prosthetic device fitting begins two to six months after surgery once the surgical incision has healed completely, the swelling has gone down, and your physical condition improves.