Amputation is a drastic measure that patients and physicians want to avoid if at all possible. However, it may be the only way to control a severe infection that could require a more traumatic amputation later or that could otherwise prove fatal. After undergoing an amputation, patients may experience improved general health because a severe infection has been resolved.

Amputation might not be an option is if the individual has uncontrolled diabetes, has heart failure, has a blood-clotting disorder or is too frail to tolerate the anesthesia and surgery.

Foot or leg amputation involves the general risks of major surgery. These include:

• Blood loss
• Stroke or other complications of blood clots
• Allergic reaction to the anesthetic
• Overdose of anesthetic
• A new hospital-acquired infection

Amputations also carry their own unique risks and side effects. These include:

• Phantom limb pain
  
• Stump pain and swelling (edema)
  
• Joint contractures, especially flexion (bending) of the knee
  
• Opening and infection of the amputation site after surgery
  
• The need for further amputation because of improper healing
  
• Unsteady gait (way of walking) that increases risk of falls