Modified Supracondylar Amputation of the Femur

Abstract

The upper leg can be amputated at many levels starting with the through the knee amputation and ending with the hip disarticulation. The most common above the knee amputation is through the mid-femur, and this procedure is taught in most surgical programs in the United States. A new modification of the supracondylar amputation of the femur is herein described. A 20-year experience of over 200 procedures is reported using a new modification of the supracondylar amputation of the leg. Two deaths occurred, and a primary healing rate of 95 per cent was obtained. Revision to a higher level was required in only three patients. The advantages of the modified amputation procedure include short operative procedure, minimal blood loss, long femur stump, reduced pain, strong fascial closure, high rate of primary healing, and avoidance of a postoperative flexion contracture at the hip.