Amputation Discussion

Amputations involving the upper extremity pose a number of difficult management problems. The most common problems include inadequate wound healing, inadequate wound cover even after the wounds have healed, chronic neuroma related pain and tenderness, infection, stiffness, sympathetic dystrophy and secondary dysfunctional patterns of extremity use. Multiple surgical procedures may be needed for reconstruction. Hand therapy is often helpful in the recovery period. Despite this, persistent symptoms are common, and permanent impairment (as determined by various impairment rating guidelines) is always a consequence.

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