Above-the-Knee Amputations and Prosthetics

Abstract

The above-the-knee amputation level is used very frequently. If the level of amputation is at the surgeon's discretion, certain considerations that may make for improved prosthetic use should be respected. The prescription of a prosthesis needs to be detailed and should fit the individual patient's needs for comfort, efficiency, and appearance. Further, the surgeon's limited experience in this area should not prevent the amputee from obtaining the best possible prosthesis through an amputee clinic. In such a clinic, the optimum prosthetic prescription can be written and the patient can receive adequate training and follow-up care. Where such clinics are not available, the surgeon should learn something regarding local prosthetic facilities and thus work with the most competent prosthetist. An amputee should never be totally discharged from care but should be seen at intervals both to forestall stump problems and also to reveal malfunctions of the prosthesis before major repairs or even complete replacement is required.