Can you walk with a double amputation?

Can you walk with a double 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.

What is a double leg amputee called?

bilateral amputee: A person who is missing or has had amputated both arms or both legs. For example, a person that is missing both legs below-the knee is considered a bilateral BK.

How long does it take to recover from above knee amputation?

It will take 1 to 2 months for the remaining limb to heal. Physical activity will be limited during recovery. You may need to ask for help with daily activities and delay return to work. You will need to learn new ways to do daily tasks.

How do double amputees drive?

For an individual with both legs amputated, a modified car would have an option to control the accelerator, brakes, and clutch with your hands instead of your feet. An amputee who only has a left leg may shift the pedals to the left side to allow them to control the car, even without the help of their right.

How long after 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.

How long does amputation surgery take?

The area for surgery is often marked to make sure there are no errors. You will be kept comfortable and safe by your anesthesia provider. You will be asleep during the surgery. The surgery will take about 45 to 90 minutes.

Can you walk after above knee amputation?

Prosthetic legs, or prostheses, can help people with leg amputations get around more easily. They mimic the function and, sometimes, even the appearance of a real leg. Some people still need a cane, walker or crutches to walk with a prosthetic leg, while others can walk freely.

What happens after double leg amputation?

Your doctor removed the leg while keeping as much healthy bone, skin, blood vessel, and nerve tissue as possible. After the surgery, you will probably have bandages, a rigid dressing, or a cast over the remaining part of your leg (residual limb). The leg may be swollen for at least 4 weeks after your surgery.

Can above knee amputees walk?

Working toward mobility with a prosthetic leg can differ depending on whether you have had an above-knee or a below-knee amputation. As you learn to walk with an above-knee prosthetic leg, you can expect to use assistive devices like a walker, for a longer period than below-knee amputees do.

What is below the knee amputation?

A below knee amputation (BKA), also known as a transtibial amputation, is an amputation through your shin bone. The BKA is the most common type of amputation performed, and the risk of serious post-operative complications in a BKA is far less than in a transfemoral amputation.

What is a below the knee amputation?

What is a Below-Knee Amputation? Transtibial amputation, or below-knee amputation, is a surgical procedure performed to remove the lower limb below the knee when that limb has been severely damaged or is diseased. Most transtibial amputations (60%–70%) are due to peripheral vascular disease, or disease of the circulation in the lower limb.

What happens after leg amputation?

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. The part of your leg that is not removed is called a residual limb.

What is the term for above the knee amputation?

Transfemoral (above knee) amputation is a surgical procedure performed to remove the lower limb at or above the knee joint when that limb has been severely damaged via trauma, disease, or congenital defect.