Which pre-operative intervention is essential to prevent potential complications in a patient scheduled for amputation?

Transmetatarsal amputation involves the surgical removal of the forefoot and toes while preserving the heel and ankle joint. It is commonly used for below-the-knee amputations, specifically for conditions that affect the toes and forefoot but spare the ankle joint.

a. Hip disarticulation: Hip disarticulation is a higher-level amputation that involves the removal of the entire lower limb at the hip joint. It is not commonly used for below-the-knee amputations.
c. Above-the-knee amputation: Above-the-knee amputation involves the removal of the entire lower limb above the knee joint. It is not used for below-the-knee amputations.
d. Syme amputation: Syme amputation involves the removal of the foot at the ankle joint while preserving the heel pad. It is used for specific conditions affecting the foot and ankle joint but is not a common choice for below-the-knee amputations.

The purpose of elevation in the post-operative care of a patient with a lower extremity amputation is to promote venous return and reduce swelling. Elevating the residual limb helps to decrease edema and improve blood flow, which can enhance healing and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis.

b. To improve the patient's comfort and relaxation: While elevation may improve the patient's comfort, the primary purpose is to address physiological concerns related to venous return and swelling.
c. To encourage early ambulation and mobility: Ambulation and mobility are essential components of post-operative care, but the specific purpose of elevation is not related to encouraging early ambulation.
d. To protect the surgical incision from contamination: While protecting the surgical incision is important, elevation is not the primary method for this purpose. Dressings and wound care techniques are used to protect the surgical site from contamination.