52 SIDE EFFECTS AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT /// CHAPTER 36 Amputation In some cancers of the bones and muscles, it may become necessary to remove all or part of a limb to stop the cancer from spreading. This is called amputation. It is only ever done when it is completely unavoidable, usually because the cancer in the bone extends into the nearby blood vessels and nerves. Without stating the obvious, losing a limb can be one of the toughest consequences of your illness. On top of dealing with having cancer, you will also now have to adjust to a whole new self-image, or even a new lifestyle. If the cancer has not spread in this way, a doctor may perform a limb-salvage surgery, where the bone that has cancer is removed and the limb is saved from amputation by replacing it with a bone graft or special metal rod. This is always done as a first choice when possible. If an amputation is being considered, your doctor will talk things through with you so that you fully understand what is involved. People who have amputations are usually fitted with a prosthesis or artificial limb. These are very effective and many people with a prosthesis are able to return to normal activities - even sports. Ask if you can meet with the prosthetics and rehabilitation team before the surgery. It is often very helpful to meet with another AYA who has had the same operation before, so you can get some practical advice and support. Ask your health care team if they can arrange this or use a peer matching service like Imerman Angels. Things to ask your team about to help you prepare: » What will the wound look like? » How long will it take before I can get a prothesis? » Will it hurt? What is " phantom limb " pain? » What will rehabilitation look like? You will probably feel very scared and getting support is really important. There is a great online community for people who have lost a limb called Amputee Coalition.https://www.imermanangels.org/ https://www.amputee-coalition.org/ https://fwaya.org/