What is Amputation, Above-the-Knee?

An above-the-knee amputation (AKA) is the surgical removal of the leg above the knee.

Above the Knee Amputation © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

An amputation is usually done for one of the following reasons:

• Poor blood flow cannot be corrected, resulting in tissue loss or extreme pain
• Severe infection
• Trauma or injury
• Tumor
• Congenital disorder (eg, a limb that has not formed properly)

Possible Complications

If an above-the-knee amputation has been recommended, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Wound breakdown
• Infection
• Non-healing of the amputation site resulting in the need for a higher level of amputation
• Swelling of the stump
• Decreased range of motion in the hip joint
• Phantom pain—feeling pain in amputated limb area
• Phantom limb sensation —feeling that the amputated limb is still there
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Reaction to anesthesia

Some factors that increase the risk for complications include:

• Poor blood flow
• Diabetes
• Infection
• Prolonged immobilization
• Heart disease
• Smoking or lung disease
• Blood clotting disorders

Be sure to discuss these risks...