special subjects
Preparing for a Limb Prosthesis
Introduction
When amputation is elective, certain preparatory measures can help optimize recovery. It is important to educate the patient and family members as early as possible regarding the necessity of amputation and to review the entire process from preoperative preparation to prosthetic fitting and living with a prosthesis. Such education helps increase the patient's commitment to the process, which is essential to a successful outcome, and also maximizes family support. Meeting with a peer counselor who has had an amputation can be helpful for the patient. 