title: Management of upper limb amputations.
abstract: Acquired upper extremity amputations beyond the finger can have substantial physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences for the patient. The hand surgeon is one of a team of specialists in the care of these patients, but the surgeon plays a critical role in the surgical management of these wounds. The execution of a successful amputation at each level of the limb allows maximum use of the residual extremity, with or without a prosthesis, and minimizes the known complications of these injuries. This article reviews current surgical options in performing and managing upper extremity amputations proximal to the finger.
authors.affiliation: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Integrated Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD20889, USA. jeffrey_marchess@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Jeffrey A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Marchessault
authors.forename: Patricia L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: McKay
authors.forename: Warren C
authors.initials: WC
authors.lastname: Hammert
mesh_terms: D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000601:surgery*; D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D006230:Hand Injuries / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000601:surgery*