| Unless it is absolutely necessary doctors do not amputate. However much a prosthesis looks like the real thing it can never completely perform the same function. And just as important is that it has no sensation. Amputations are done to save a patients life under such circumstances as the following : | ||
| 1. Lack of circulation causing tissue necrosis and dangerous infection. | ||
| 2. Damage to a limb, its skin, muscles, bone, blood vessels and nerves. | ||
| 3. Uncontrollable infection which could lead to septicemia. | ||
| 4. Chronic ulceration which could become malignant, leading to death. | ||
| 5. Cancer involving muscle and bone. | ||