special subjects
Overview of Limb Prosthetics
Preparing for an amputation
Having an amputation is difficult for people. Losing a limb is not only physically challenging, but people's self-image often changes after they lose a part of "themselves." Doctors and prosthetists try to prepare people and their family by explaining why an amputation is necessary and what will happen before and after the amputation and during the prosthesis fitting process. People who understand the process and have realistic expectations of the difficulties they may face and the most likely outcomes are more likely to persevere and have a better result. Doctors sometimes arrange for the person to talk with someone who already has an amputation and has adjusted well to it. Before doing surgery, doctors try to get people in the best possible medical condition. They try to alleviate existing medical problems, such as poor nutrition, diabetes, and heart or lung disease as much as possible. Because smoking interferes with healing, Smoking Cessation measures are important. If time permits, people who are weak or debilitated may do therapy and exercises to make them stronger and more flexible. 