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Patient Information on Bka

BKA stands for below-the-knee amputation, a type of surgical procedure where a leg or foot is surgically removed due to a variety of reasons. Historically, BKA resulted in permanent disabilities. Thanks to modern prostheses, most patients who undergo BKA are able to lead full and healthy lives.

  1. Causes

    • Reasons that doctors perform BKA include infected ulcers due to diabetes, tumors or cancer in one of your lower legs or feet or a severe injury where your foot or lower leg cannot be saved.

    Prevalence

    • Approximately 7 percent of diabetics develop ulcers that require BKA, and these types of patients account for 30 to 40 percent of all BKA procedures, according to www.vascular.co.nz. The most common cause of BKA in children is cancers or tumors.

    Time Frame

    • After BKA, you will need to wear dressings for approximately 10 to 14 days, explains the Manual for Below-Knee Amputees.

    Prostheses

    • After your dressing is removed and the area of the amputation has begun to heal, your doctor will help you schedule an appointment with an orthotist who will fit your for a prosthetic lower leg and foot. Physical therapy is often necessary to help you learn to use your new limb.

    Risks

    • Some patients develop phantom limb pain after BKA, a phenomenon where you feel discomfort in the area where your foot or leg formerly was. Rarer risks associated with BKA include heart attacks and strokes during your procedure, the formation of blood clots during recovery and infection at the site of your amputation.

    Coping

    • It is not uncommon for you to feel depressed after BKA. Consider seeing a psychologist or therapist or finding a support group for others who have undergone amputation surgery to help you deal with your feelings.

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