Amputees: skin problems and prostheses

Once lower-extremity amputees become accustomed to wearing an artificial limb, they want to continue using it. Of considerable concern to the dermatologist, prosthetist, and the entire clinical team is prevention of any disorder that might return such patients to crutches or bed rest. The importance of early recognition and treatment of skin lesions on the stump of amputees cannot be overemphasized. Heavy demands are placed on the stump skin by the artificial limb. Even a minor skin eruption may, through neglect or mistreatment, become an extensive disorder that will seriously threaten the amputee's mental, social, and economic rehabilitation.