Amputation
Amputation is defined as removal by surgery of an external body part, usually all or part of a limb. Amputation may be required when a limb has been severely crushed or when blood circulation is impaired. Other conditions, which could lead to amputation, include infection, frostbite, burns, or arteriosclerosis. Even though a body part has been removed, some amputees report the feeling of painful sensations from the removed part. This condition is called phantom-limb pain. Eighty five percent of amputations result from peripheral vascular diseases. Amputations resulting from trauma are ten percent. Three percent from tumors and one percent from infections. Level of amputation is influenced by cosmetic appearance, functional requirements, comfort, and viability of soft tissues.
In a work place the most serious injuries are amputations. They involve a variety of activities and equipment. Amputations happen because workers operate unguarded or inadequately safeguarded mechanical power presses, powered and non-powered conveyors, food slicers, meat grinders, and so on. These injuries also happen during materials handling activities and when using forklifts, trash compactors, and powered and non-powered hand tools.