Amputation and Prosthetic Management: Amputation as a Reconstructive Option

Elective amputation has an important role in the management of children with limb deficiencies. Social awareness and acceptance of individuals with prosthetic limbs has come about in concert with highly functional prostheses, outstanding athletic performance, Paralympic games, and mainstreaming of school children. Parents must become fully aware of the advantages and disadvantages of reconstructive options for their child in order to select the treatment which best fits the needs of their child and their family. This chapter reviews the role of amputation in the management of congenital lower limb deficiencies as well as those related to trauma, tumor, and other syndromes.