Amputation of Hand Treatment in India

Robert Malhotra, a 58-year-old former construction...

Robert Malhotra, a 58-year-old former construction foreman, had managed his type 2 diabetes for over a decade. Despite his best efforts, a small cut on his right index finger from a piece of sheet metal became infected. The infection rapidly progressed into a severe, deep tissue infection (necrotizing fasciitis) that spread through his hand. Despite multiple aggressive surgeries to debride the dead tissue and powerful IV antibiotics, the infection and tissue death were too extensive. His orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Evans, sat with him and his wife, explaining with great empathy that the infection was life-threatening and the only way to save his life was to amputate his right hand below the wrist. The surgery itself was a blur of anesthesia and fear. The initial recovery in the hospital was physically painful and emotionally devastating. Robert grappled with profound grief, feeling he had lost not just a hand but his identity as a provider and a capable man. With the support of a therapist specializing in limb loss and a dedicated occupational therapist, he began the long journey of rehabilitation. He was fitted with a myoelectric prosthetic hand. While the phantom limb sensations were challenging, learning to use his new prosthesis gave him a renewed sense of purpose. He has since become a peer mentor for new amputees, channeling his pain into supporting others. The emotional journey was from despair and loss to a hard-won acceptance and a redefined sense of strength.