Risks of surgery

As with any operation, transtibial amputation is associated with risks. A distinction is made between general risks, which can occur with almost any operation, and specific risks that can arise with a transtibial amputation. The general risks include, for example, the fact that the operation may result in severe blood loss, which may even require the transfusion of blood preserves.

In addition, there may be injury to muscles, nerves or vessels. Likewise, despite all hygiene measures in the operating room, there is always the risk of tissue inflammation. In addition, every operation increases the risk of blood clots forming, which can lead to a pulmonary embolism.

In addition, there are the possible complications that can result from the general anesthesia required for the operation. These include, for example, allergic reactions and even cardiovascular failure. A particular risk in the case of a transtibial amputation and amputations at other heights is that the residual limb may not heal properly. Especially in the case of a circulatory disorder, which is often the reason for a transtibial amputation, there is a risk of difficulties in wound healing.

Do you need rehab after the operation?

As a rule, rehabilitation is needed after a transtibial amputation. Depending on the patient’s state of health and mobility, this can be done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. The main goals of rehabilitation measures after a transtibial amputation are to support the patient’s social and professional reintegration, provided that the patient is still working.

In the first phase of rehabilitation, the main elements are muscle building, exercise therapy and body training. In addition, intensive residual limb treatment and care as well as residual limb shaping using various aids and load simulations are essential. For this reason, a prosthesis should be fitted at an early stage. Since the residual limb can still change its shape over time, a transitional prosthesis is usually applied first.

What level of care is provided after a transtibial amputation?

After a transtibial amputation, one will not necessarily receive a level of care. Despite the restrictions imposed by the amputation, many people are able to care for themselves or at least do not meet the requirements for receiving a care level or degree of care. A classification is made by the medical service of the health insurance companies.

A care level or degree of care is only awarded if a certain amount of time per day is required for the basic care of the affected person, which the person cannot provide. A transtibial amputation is one of many factors that are taken into account. Some people are in need of care after such an operation, while others can continue to provide for themselves.