Amputation

An amputation is the surgical removal of part of the body, usually a leg or an arm. People with diabetes are particularly at risk.

Why amputation may be needed

Assessment before surgery

How amputations are carried out

Recovering after an amputation

Prosthetics

Stump care

Complications of amputation

Psychological impact of amputation

Help and support

Recovery from amputation {#recovery}

error

 There was an error when submitting your feedback – have a screen break then try again in a few minutes.

Oh no, something’s gone wrong

ANY COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS?

initial

This isn’t helpful

This isn’t relevant

Something is wrong

This isn’t accurate

Please select one.

loading

success

We're listening – we use your feedback to improve your experience, and make our content more helpful.

Thank you for your feedback

References

All of Healthily's articles undergo medical safety checks to verify that the information is medically safe. View more details in our <a href="/safety" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">safety page</a>, or read our <a href="/legal/editorial-policy-principles" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">editorial policy</a>.

Article information

There are a number of factors that influence the risk of complications from amputation, such as your age, the type of amputation and your general state of health.