From the Research
If you're experiencing desquamation (skin peeling) and bloody drainage from an above-knee amputation (AKA) stump, you should immediately consult your healthcare provider as these are concerning signs of potential complications, with wound infection being the most likely complication, which may be managed with antibiotics and proper wound care, as supported by the most recent study 1. The most likely complications include:
- Wound infection, which may present with redness, warmth, swelling, increased pain, foul odor, and fever
- Dehiscence (wound separation)
- Hematoma formation
- Poor healing due to vascular insufficiency Management involves:
- Cleaning the stump with mild soap and water
- Applying prescribed topical agents
- Changing dressings regularly
- Avoiding pressure on the area
- Elevating the residual limb to reduce swelling and drainage These complications can delay prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation if not addressed promptly. Underlying conditions like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease may contribute to poor healing, so optimizing management of these conditions is essential for successful recovery, as suggested by 2, 3, 4. The use of closed incision negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) may decrease the incidence of wound complications in vascular patients undergoing major lower extremity amputations, as shown in the study 1. It is crucial to address these complications promptly to prevent further morbidity and mortality, and to improve the patient's quality of life, as highlighted in 2.