Levels of Amputation

 Levels of Amputation

What does ‘amputation level’ mean?

Amputation level is used to describe at which location of the body part is amputated.

The doctor determines the amputation level before the operation and is based on the reason for the amputation. Usually, a prosthetist is normally consulted as well in order to clarify which amputation level is suitable for fitting of the prosthesis.

Metacarpal amputation

There are many different amputation levels in the hand. They range from a digit or finger amputation, to a metacarpal amputation through the bones of the hand.

When there is less need for—or difficulty in fitting—a prosthesis that offers increased function, Cosmetic silicone prostheses are sometimes used. However, a prosthesis not always used with hand

 
1^st:

 

Wrist disarticulation

For transcarpal,also known as ‘Below elbow’ amputations, the amputation occurs through the radius and the metacarpal bones.

2^nd:

 

Transradial Amputation

For transradial amputations, the amputation occurs through the radius and ulna of the lower arm.

The transradial prosthesis would consist of a socket, which contains the residual limb. The amputated limb is referred to as the ‘stump’, the prosthetic wrist, and a terminal device, which can be a hand, a hook or a Greifer. 

There would also be adapters and other connecting elements.and a prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

 

 

 

3^rd:

Elbow disarticulation

In elbow disarticulation surgery the elbow joint is separated and the lower arm is removed however the entire upper arm, the humerus bone is maintained.

The prosthesis if chosen would consist of a socket, which contains the residual limb, a prosthetic elbow joint, a prosthetic wrist a terminal device, which can be a hand, a hook or a Greifer.

4^th:

 

Transhumeral amputation

 

In a transhumeral amputation also known as ‘above the elbow, the amputation occurs through the upper arm bone the humerus, so that the elbow is no longer present.

 

5th:

Shoulder disarticulation

Shoulder disarticulation, the amputation would be performed where the upper arm bone humerus meets the rest of the shoulder clavicle and scapula.

6th:

 

 

Forequarter (or ‘Interscapular Thoracic’) amputation

With a forequarter amputation, the upper arm bone humerus scapula, and clavicle, are all removed.

 

7^th: