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Hindquarter and Forequarter Amputations in the Palliative Setting: A Narrative Review of Patient Outcomes Publisher



Saberi S1 ; Mosavat MS2 ; Naghizadeh H1 ; Khalili Bisafar T3 ; Haddadi MH3 ; Khabiri SS1, 3, 4
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  2. 2. Department of Gynecology Oncology, Valiasr Hospital, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  3. 3. Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  4. 4. Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O Box: 1419733141, Tehran, Iran

Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports Published:2025


Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review examines the role of hindquarter and forequarter amputations in the palliative care of patients with advanced limb sarcomas. It aims to clarify surgical indications, patient selection criteria, quality-of-life outcomes, and ethical considerations. Recent Findings: Recent research highlights that around 80% of patients undergoing these major amputations achieve immediate symptom relief, especially from pain and bleeding. While prosthetic adoption remains limited, innovations such as vascularized flap reconstruction and osseointegrated prosthetics have improved outcomes. Structured psychological support and family-centered care significantly aid postoperative adjustment. Summary: Hindquarter and forequarter amputations offer substantial palliative benefits when used selectively, enhancing comfort, dignity, and quality of life in terminal sarcoma cases. Their success relies on multidisciplinary planning and ethical clarity. Broader recognition of these procedures and standardized patient selection frameworks is critical to improving care equity and guiding future research in palliative surgical oncology. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2025.