Subperiosteal amputation is a medical procedure that involves the removal of bone tissue while leaving the periosteum intact. The word subperiosteal is pronounced /sʌbpəriɒstiəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The term is derived from the Latin sub, meaning "under," and periosteum, referring to the tissue that covers bones. The word amputation is pronounced /æmpjʊˈteɪʃən/, with the stress on the second syllable. This procedure is typically performed in cases of bone cancer or severe infections that cannot be treated with antibiotics or other nonsurgical methods.
Subperiosteal amputation refers to a surgical procedure in which a limb or a part of a limb is removed by dissecting between the periosteum (a thin membrane that covers the bones) and the underlying bone. This type of amputation allows the surgeon to preserve the periosteum and any associated structures, such as blood vessels and nerves, while still removing the affected area.
The subperiosteal amputation technique is typically employed when it is desired to maintain the maximum functional capacity of the residual limb. By preserving the periosteum, the surgeon aims to promote a more efficient healing process and reduce the potential for complications like infection or bone deformity.
The procedure begins with an incision made around the circumference of the limb, exposing the periosteum. The periosteum is then carefully dissected away from the bone, while ensuring that the surrounding blood vessels and nerves are protected. Once the periosteum is sufficiently detached, the surgeon proceeds to remove the diseased or injured tissue, amputating the limb at the desired level. Consequently, the periosteum is then folded back over the cut bone, providing a protective layer and promoting the regeneration of the bone and soft tissues.
Subperiosteal amputations are infrequently performed nowadays, as more advanced surgical techniques, such as muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps, have become favored. However, it may still be utilized in certain challenging cases where preservation of the periosteum is crucial for optimal outcomes.
One in which the periosteum is stripped back from the bone and replaced afterward, forming a periosteal flap over the cut end.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "subperiosteal amputation" is a medical term that consists of two components: "subperiosteal" and "amputation".
1. Subperiosteal: The term "subperiosteal" is derived from the prefix "sub-" meaning "under" or "below", and "periosteal" referring to the periosteum. The periosteum is a dense connective tissue layer that surrounds bones, providing them with nutrients and aiding in healing. Therefore, "subperiosteal" signifies something being done or occurring below or beneath the periosteum.
2. Amputation: The word "amputation" comes from the Latin word "amputare", which means "to cut away". It refers to the surgical removal or detachment of a part of the body, typically a limb or digit.