Editing Lower extremity amputation operatives (section)

== Physiological cryoamputation ==

* Indicated in patients requiring an amputation who are moribund
* Umbilical tape tied around the affected limb just proximal to the diseased area
* Large plastic bag placed over the distal leg and filled with dry ice, circumferentially covering the leg
* Dry ice bag wrapped with blankets and secured with adhesive tape
* Heating pad placed proximal to ice bag and opposite leg covered in numerous blankets
* Frost line and frozen limb checked frequently by nurses
* This process alleviates time pressures, controls infection and allows optimal treatment of associated conditions
* When the patient's status improves, they are taken to the OT for a one-stage amputation