Transfemoral amputation: Biomechanics and surgery

The technique of transfemoral amputation has evolved during the last decade whereby muscle stabilization and biomechanical principles have gained new significance. Maintenance of the femoral shaft axis close to normal can be achieved by preservation of the adductor magnus and by myodesis of the muscle to the residual femur. By following established biomechanical principles, and satisfactory surgical techniques, patients undergoing transfemoral amputation are easier to fit with a prosthesis and more likely to remain able to ambulate. Reduction in stump problems can be achieved, and improvement in stump strength is seen.