Amputations and Related Care

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to amputations and their care, aiding in understanding and retention of the subject.

Amputation

Removal of some or all of a body part, usually done surgically to prevent further health complications.

Necrosis

The death of tissue due to a lack of blood supply or infection, often necessitating amputation.

Elective Amputation

A planned surgical procedure where a patient opts for amputation due to chronic, debilitating pain.

Mastectomy

Surgical removal of one or both breasts, typically to prevent or treat breast cancer.

Diabetes

A chronic condition that can lead to neuropathy, infections, and potential amputations due to poor circulation.

Neuropathy

A condition resulting from nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation or pain, commonly associated with diabetes.

Phantom Pain

Pain that feels like it's coming from a body part that's no longer there.

Prosthetics

Artificial devices designed to replace missing body parts, often required after amputation.

Traumatic Amputation

Loss of a limb due to an accident or injury, as opposed to a planned surgical procedure.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

A circulatory condition affecting blood flow to the limbs, often leading to amputations.

Gangrene

Tissue death due to infection or lack of blood supply, which can require amputation.

Elective Procedure

A medical procedure that is scheduled in advance because it is not an emergency.

Frostbite

Damage to skin and underlying tissue caused by extreme cold, can lead to amputation in severe cases.

Below Knee Amputation (BKA)

A surgical procedure to remove a limb below the knee, typically preferred for prosthetic fitting.

Above Knee Amputation (AKA)

A surgical procedure to remove a limb above the knee.

Nerve Stimulation

A therapeutic technique used to manage pain, especially phantom pain after amputation.

Shrink Sock

A compressive garment used after amputation to reduce swelling and provide stability.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

A condition where blood clots form in deep veins, with increased risk after surgery and immobility.

Patient Education

The process of informing patients about managing their health post-surgery, including care instructions.

Mirror Therapy

A therapeutic approach utilized to treat phantom limb pain by creating a visual illusion of the missing limb.

Compression Socks

Elastic socks designed to improve circulation and reduce swelling, important after amputation surgery.