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 Amputations

It is probable that such a publication as this will be read only by those who have lost limbs or by their immediate friends. To advance an opinion here as to the length of stump or the kind of operation best adapted to the subsequent application of an artificial limb would be of little benefit, and might, indeed, suggest dissatisfaction to the sufferer and cause injury to the operator. The preservation of life is the object of amputations. Surgeons generally appreciate the importance of the operation and their own responsibility. They undertake it with reluctance. Often during such an operation exigencies arise or unforeseen conditions so present themselves as to preclude any observance of suggestions relating to the selection of a point for amputation and preparation of the stump for the exercise of the restorative art of prothesis. Then the surgeon has no choice if he would save life. It is better not to criticise the operation and malign the operator, but to believe the best results possible under the circumstances have been attained and be thankful that the outcome is no worse.

Treatment of the Stump

In preparation for the application of an artificial leg, and as soon as it is healed sufficiently to permit it without pain or irritation, the stump should be kept tightly bandaged from the end up to the knee, if the amputation be below, or up to the body if the amputation be above the knee. The bandaging will diminish and solidify the stump, leaving it in a much more desirable condition for fitting and rendering the successful use of a leg more a matter of certainty. If neglected, the chances are that a soft, flabby stump will be the result, which will rapidly reduce after the patient begins the use of a leg, but a refitting or 12