WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) is surgery to remove all or part of your forefoot. You may need TMA if you have a severe injury or infection, or poor blood flow to your foot.
AFTER YOU LEAVE:
- Medicines can help decrease pain or prevent an infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Call your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You may need to return to have your wound checked and stitches removed. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Elevate your foot:
Elevate your foot above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your foot on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
Go to physical and occupational therapy as directed:
A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain. An occupational therapist teaches you skills to help with your daily activities. They will show you new ways to function without part of your foot.
Use your assistive device or prosthesis:
You may have a medical device that helps protect, support, or improve the function of your foot. You may need a cast or splint and crutches or a walker. These will help you walk until your foot heals. You may need to wear a shoe insole made of sponge rubber or foam. These devices help decrease strain and stress on your foot. You may get a prosthesis once your wound has completely healed. Ask for more information about your prosthesis.
Carefully wash the incision wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your incision wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- You have nausea or are vomiting.
- Your splint or cast breaks or is damaged.
- Your pain and swelling do not go away, even after you take medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Seek care immediately or call 911 if:
- You have trouble breathing.
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- The skin on your foot turns blue or white, or it feels cold, numb, or tingly.
- You have severe pain.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Transmetatarsal Amputation (Discharge Care)
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