Your Amputation Team

Members of your amputation team

Not every team is made up of the same people. But you may work with many of these experts:

• A team of surgeons. A surgeon does the actual surgery. They might specialize in one of several areas, such as orthopedics, vascular, plastic, and general surgery. They may also write prescriptions needed for further care.

• Anesthesiologist. The anesthesiologist will consult with the operating surgeon(s) about the type of anesthesia to be used during the surgery.

• Nurses. Nurses provide care in the hospital before and after your surgery. Nurses also assist the surgeon and primary care physician. Nurses will be involved throughout your care from pre-surgery, while you're in the hospital, and after.

• Intensivists An intensivist may play a vital role in your recovery during the immediate post-operative period. An intensivist is a medical doctor with advanced training in the care of critically ill people.

• A physiatrist. This is an expert in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They help you during the postoperative period. They also help you get ready for a prosthesis. The physiatrist may also write prescriptions needed for further care.

• A physical therapist (PT). A PT teaches you stretching and strengthening exercises before and after surgery. You’ll learn to transfer (move) safely between two surfaces after surgery. If you receive a prosthesis, the PT helps you learn to walk again if you receive a prosthesis. They also teach you how to use walking aids, if needed.

• An occupational therapist (OT). An OT shows you how to resume daily tasks. They also teach you self-care skills after surgery. The OT can provide you with adaptive devices to help you do self-care tasks. This may include tools to assist you in bathing or dressing.

• Pain management specialists. They will help develop a plan that minimizes problems associated with opioid use while keeping you as pain free as possible. Your pain scores will be checked regularly and your medicine will be adjusted accordingly.

• The primary care provider. This healthcare provider helps you with general medical care through the amputation. They also help during and after recovery.

• A prosthetist. A prosthetist helps you shape your residual limb for a prosthesis. They also fit your prosthesis and teach you how to care for it.

• A social worker. They help you learn about resources for support. This includes financial and emotional support or home help, if needed. The social worker will ensure that your home is suitable and that you have adequate resources and support services.

• A psychologist. A psychologist talks to you about emotional issues surrounding limb loss. They can help you set realistic goals and use adaptive coping mechanisms.

• A home health worker. They help you with daily tasks at home during your recovery.

For family and friends

As a family or friend, your role in your loved one’s recovery is vital. You can give support by:

• Helping to collect and remember information

• Going to all appointments

• Learning ways to help with pain management

• Helping with safe transfers

• Learning to help take care of the healing surgical wound

• Taking an active role in daily care

• Going to rehabilitation sessions

Finding a peer counselor

Peer counselors can be a great resource. They are people who’ve had an amputation. They are willing to share their story. Talking to someone who’s been through an amputation can be a great help. Peer counselors can answer your questions about life after surgery. Ask your healthcare team to put you in touch with a peer counseling program in your area.

To learn more about limb loss and to get support, contact:

• Amputee Coalition at www.amputee-coalition.org