Post-Amputation Wound Care
Speeds Recovery, Healing
By Cheryl York, P.T.
One of the most important steps you can take after an amputation is to pay close attention to the surgical site. Properly caring for it can ensure that it heals well.
After surgery, your doctor will staple and/or suture the incision closed. For the first couple of days you will have a bulky dressing to protect the surgical site. Once your doctor inspects your incision, she will cover it with a nonstick dressing, such as Xeroform.
At that time, you may be fitted with a limb protector to keep your surgical site from getting injured when you move around. A stump shrinker may also be applied to help decrease swelling. It begins the shaping process for your prosthesis.
Your sutures or staples will be removed two to three weeks after surgery. Until then, wash your residual limb with mild soap and water. Do not soak your limb as this may delay the healing process.
Bathtime is a good time to begin desensitizing your residual limb. This is the process of making it less sensitive to pressure. Gently touch the limb with different items, such as your hands, a soft cloth, or brush to reduce sensitivity. Desensitization helps prepare you for your prosthetic limb.
Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have increased drainage, pain, or redness at your surgical site. Good wound care now will ease your recovery and ensure a quicker transition to your new prosthetic limb.
Cheryl York is a physical therapist at The Rehabilitation Institute at Memorial University Medical Center. Pictured is our patient Mike Johnson.
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