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The dermatologist's role in amputee skin care
Ford M Lannan1, Jon H Meyerle2
1Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Cutis
|March 21, 2019
Summary
Amputees are at higher risk for residual limb skin disease. Dermatologists are crucial in managing these conditions, with military doctors offering unique insights from treating blast-related injuries.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Prosthetics
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Amputees experience significant challenges with their residual limbs.
- Increased risk of skin disease at residual limb sites is a common issue for amputees.
- Dermatologists are integral members of the multidisciplinary care team for amputees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges faced by amputees regarding residual limb skin health.
- To emphasize the critical role of dermatologists in managing amputee skin conditions.
- To discuss the unique experiences of military dermatologists in treating traumatic amputations.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical experiences and common dermatological issues in amputees.
- Discussion of the multidisciplinary approach to amputee care.
- Analysis of the role of military dermatologists in treating blast-injury related amputations.
Main Results:
- Amputees have a higher incidence of skin diseases on their residual limbs.
- Routine care is often managed by prosthetists and primary care physicians, but specialized dermatological input is vital.
- Military dermatologists possess extensive experience with complex traumatic amputations.
Conclusions:
- Current therapies for residual limb skin conditions are largely effective.
- Preventative strategies play a key role in managing amputee skin health.
- Future advancements in technology hold promise for improved treatments and care for amputees.