Peripheral nerve blocks for above knee amputation in high-risk patients

Anesthesia for leg amputation in high risk patients: Case reports

Background: High risk cases of leg amputation were one of major concerns in anesthesiologists.　 Cases: Sixteen cases with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status (ASA-PS) 3 or 4 for leg amputation were reported.  Fifteen patients were medicated with more than two anticoagulants and 11 patients had bleeding tendency.  Thirteen patients received below knee amputation (BKA) and thre...

Successful Management of above Knee Amputation with Combined and Modified Nerve Blocks

We report a successful management of a case of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus positive right lower limb cellulitis for above knee amputation under combined nerve blocks. The ongoing sepsis, thrombocytopenia, and severe respiratory infection with wheeze made us avoid both neuraxial block and general anesthesia and plan for a nerve block. We instituted a modified high inguinal femora...

22 Above - knee Amputation

Knee disarticulation versus above-knee amputation.

If below-knee amputation is impossible, knee disarticulation should be considered before above-knee amputation, regardless of age and etiology. Knee disarticulation which leaves the femur and patella untoched offers many advantages. The surgical technique is simple and non-traumatic since no bone or muscle tissue is to be dissected. The thigh muscles are completely preserved and thus there is n...

A Case of Above Knee Amputation with Preoperative High Risks

An 85-year-old malnourished man was admitted with ischemia-induced necrosis of the right leg and high-risk factors, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, and infection of the necrotic leg. We controlled the infection and provided proper nutrition. Using light general anesthesia and a nerve block, we amputated the leg above the knee. The patient could eat and drink the same...