Avoiding a Vanilla Transhumeral Amputation

Upper-extremity amputation, particularly at or proximal to the elbow joint, is devastating. The complexities of upper-extremity function are challenging to replicate, even with modern prostheses. This leads to a relatively higher rate of prosthesis rejection in upper-extremity amputees as compared to lower-extremity amputees. However, the challenges of performing a functionally useful transhumeral amputation should dissuade even the least of us from seeking to optimize both residual limb and patient functional potential. A poorly done, or even standard, transhumeral amputation is destined to do just that-perform poorly.