Amputated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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amputated

[หˆรฆmpjษ™หŒteษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

medical procedure

Amputated refers to the surgical removal of a limb or body part. This procedure is often performed when a limb is severely injured or infected. Amputation may also be necessary in cases of tumors or vascular diseases. The goal of the procedure is to improve the patient's quality of life or to save their life in critical situations. Recipients of amputation may require rehabilitation and prosthetics.

Synonyms

cut off, removed, severed.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor amputated his leg due to the severe injury.
  • After the accident, she had to be amputated at the knee.
  • Patients who are amputated often undergo extensive rehabilitation.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical History

  • Amputation has been practiced since ancient times, with evidence found in Egyptian mummies showing amputated limbs.
  • During World War I, the number of amputations increased dramatically due to the use of modern weaponry and battlefield injuries.
  • In some cultures, amputated limbs have been treated as symbols of bravery and sacrifice, celebrated in various forms of art.

Psychological Impact

  • After amputation, many individuals may experience a phenomenon known as 'phantom limb sensation' where they feel pain or itchiness in the area that is no longer there.
  • The emotional consequences of losing a limb can include feelings of grief or loss, which can be addressed through therapy.
  • Support groups play a crucial role in helping those who have undergone amputation to connect and cope with their experiences.

Rehabilitation & Technology

  • Advancements in prosthetic technology have dramatically improved the quality of life for amputees, allowing for greater mobility and function.
  • Some prosthetics include high-tech components that respond to muscle signals, providing a more natural movement for the user.
  • Rehabilitation programs teach amputees how to adapt to their new circumstances and use prosthetic devices effectively.

Cultural Representations

  • Amputation has been a frequent subject in literature and film, often depicted as a dramatic moment of transformation or survival.
  • Many artists have explored themes of loss and identity in relation to amputation, creating powerful works that resonate with personal and societal struggles.
  • In folklore, amputation can symbolize not just physical loss but also a journey of overcoming challenges and finding new strengths.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

  • Amputation can raise complex legal questions around consent, especially if performed in emergency situations.
  • Ethical debates exist on the best practices for amputation versus other methods of treatment, emphasizing the need for patient-centered care.
  • Laws in various countries may require certain procedures or documentation before an amputation can be performed in non-emergency cases.

Origin of 'amputated'

The term 'amputated' originates from the Latin word 'amputare', which means 'to cut off'. This Latin word is a combination of 'am-' meaning 'from' or 'away from' and 'putare' meaning 'to cut'. The practice of amputation has been documented since ancient times, with evidence found in ancient Egyptian and Greek surgical texts. Historically, amputation was often a last resort in medical treatment, used to save lives from infections or severe injuries. Over the centuries, advancements in surgical techniques and anesthesia have made the procedure safer and more effective, allowing for more precise amputations and better outcomes for patients. The word has evolved to encompass both the action of physically removing a limb and the consequence of living with the loss.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,288, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.