BKA

Below the knee amputation

Below-the-knee amputation (BKA) is a surgical procedure where the leg is amputated below the knee joint, typically performed due to trauma, infection, peripheral artery disease, or diabetic complications. BKA preserves the knee joint, which allows for greater mobility and easier prosthetic use compared to above-the-knee amputation.

Rehabilitation focuses on wound healing, strengthening the remaining limb, and adapting to a prosthesis to regain mobility. With physical therapy, many patients can achieve functional walking ability using a prosthetic leg. BKA often results in better outcomes in terms of mobility and quality of life than higher-level amputations.