Amputations : General Considerations
Amputations are often disabling injuries, no matter what part of the body is involved. In the emergency care of a patient with an amputation, the first priority is to control bleeding. This is most easily accomplished by the application of direct pressure on the wound (using clean gauze or cloth). The prudent use of a tourniquet can be effective in extremity wounds. Once arrangements for emergency transport to an appropriate medical facility have been made and patient bleeding is under control, attention can be given to the amputated part. The amputated tissue should be kept clean, cool, and dry by placing it inside a clean, sealed plastic bag or cup and then placing the container on ice. DO NOT use "dry ice" as it will damage the tissue. Direct contact between the amputated part and ice [or water] should be avoided. When possible, the amputated portion should accompany the patient to the hospital, but the transport of the patient should not be delayed because the amputated part is lost or unprepared. Tetanus vaccination MUST be within 5 years.
Through the development of new microsurgical techniques, limb, digit, and hand reimplantation medicine has become a reality. Orthopaedic Surgeons and Plastic Surgeons, specially trained in hand surgery, are the recognized experts in this highly technical area.
Hope this article will provide you information about amputations.
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