Traumatic Amputation

What is Limb or Finger Detachment?

Traumatic amputation, commonly known as limb or finger detachment, refers to the loss of a body part in an accident or an injury. If the accident or injury results in complete amputation of a part, the severed part can be sometimes reattached to the body (if the severed part and the stump are treated with proper care and precaution). If the result of the injury is partial amputation instead, some connections remain in the form of soft tissues. Depending on the severity of the damages incurred, it might or might not be possible for the severed part to be reattached. The complications that could result from limb or finger detachment are severe psychological shock, infection of severed parts and bleeding.

To prevent the occurrence of traumatic amputation, always adhere to the prescribed safety regulations. It is imperative that you use personal protective equipment when you use industrial tools or farm tools or even power tools. Always wear seat belts when you travel in cars. Stick on to good judgment and never violate safety or traffic rules. Always bear in mind that safety is the cheapest but the most effective insurance policy.

Symptoms

The symptoms of limb or finger detachment are as follows:

  • Complete or partial cutting off of a body part
  • Minimal or severe bleeding depending on the injury
  • Severe pain
  • Crushed body tissues

 

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Causes

Limb or finger detachment could be caused due to the following factors:

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Farm equipment accidents
  • Power tool accidents
  • Natural disasters
  • Wars
  • Terrorist attacks

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Risks

You may be at the risk for traumatic amputation if you are an industrial worker with roles on machines or if you meet with accidents or undergo trauma resulting from natural disasters.

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Prevention

To prevent traumatic amputation:

  • Follow the prescribed safety procedures when you work on machines and vehicles.
  • Be prepared for emergency situations if you stay in an earthquake prone area

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How is it diagnosed?

At Medanta, diagnosis of traumatic amputations is done using physical examination of the injured part. As the injury is visible to naked eyes, it may not be required to use imaging tools like X-Ray...

How is it treated?

The first few hours after a traumatic injury are crucial for the treatment of amputation. Therefore, if possible, treat the injured person with first aid and immediately get medical aid from Medanta at the earliest. 

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  • Surgical procedure

    The surgical treatment of a traumatic amputation is no different from other wounds. If the amputation is caused by serious causes like bomb explosions, the level of damages caused is very high. Debridement is carried out to excise all foreign materials. The wound should not be closed primarily. The first priority is to keep the injured person alive, as the life of a person is more important than loss of a body part. If possible, the amputated part is surgically reattached back to the body.

When do I contact the doctor?

You are advised to contact a doctor at the earliest if you have undergone traumatic experiences like crashes, industrial accidents or if your legs or hands have been stuck under heavy weights for extended durations.

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How does Medanta provide care?

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