The missing portion of a leg below the knee following amputation is the part of the lower leg that includes the ankle and foot. This is often referred to as a below-knee amputation (BKA).
Below-Knee Amputation (BKA) Explained
A below-knee amputation, also known as a transtibial amputation, involves surgically removing the lower leg, typically due to:
- Vascular disease: Poor blood circulation can lead to tissue death (necrosis), necessitating amputation.
- Trauma: Severe injuries that cannot be repaired may require amputation.
- Infection: Uncontrolled infections can spread and threaten the entire limb or even the patient's life.
- Tumors: Cancerous growths in the lower leg might necessitate amputation.
- Congenital conditions: Some individuals are born with limb deformities that make amputation a better option for mobility and function.
What's Removed During a BKA?
During a BKA, the surgeon removes the following:
- Ankle joint
- Foot
- Distal portion of the tibia and fibula (lower leg bones, cut at a specific level to optimize prosthetic fitting)
- Associated soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin)
Goal of BKA
The goal of a BKA is to preserve as much of the tibia (shin bone) length as possible while ensuring adequate soft tissue coverage to create a functional residual limb (stump) that can comfortably fit into a prosthetic socket. This maximizes the patient's ability to regain mobility and independence with the use of an artificial leg.
Living with a BKA
Following a BKA, patients typically undergo rehabilitation, including:
- Wound care: Ensuring proper healing of the surgical site.
- Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises, range-of-motion exercises, and training on how to use a prosthetic leg.
- Occupational therapy: Learning how to perform daily activities with a prosthetic leg.
- Prosthetic fitting: Working with a prosthetist to design and fit a custom prosthetic leg.
With proper rehabilitation and a well-fitting prosthesis, many individuals with BKAs are able to walk, participate in sports, and live active lives.
