Transhumeral surgery, an upper-arm amputation above the elbow, is offering renewed hope to individuals who have lost their limbs due to trauma, infections, or diseases such as cancer. Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), explains that this procedure involves removing the arm through the humerus bone, eliminating the elbow joint — a key structure for arm mobility.
The surgery is typically considered when the lower arm is damaged beyond repair, with common causes including road accidents, industrial injuries, aggressive infections, and bone or muscle tumors. Unlike lower-limb amputations, transhumeral procedures are more complex due to the arm’s essential role in daily tasks like eating and writing.
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. Surgeons aim to preserve healthy tissue, carefully cut the bone, manage nerves to prevent chronic pain, and shape the remaining muscle for future prosthetic use. In some advanced cases, Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR) is done to enhance control of high-tech prosthetic limbs.
Dr. Joel Lessan, Head of Specialized Surgical Services at KNH, outlines the post-surgery journey, which includes wound care, managing phantom limb sensations, physical therapy, and emotional recovery. Therapy starts early to preserve shoulder mobility and strengthen remaining muscles. Fitting of prosthetics—ranging from simple to advanced myoelectric limbs—begins after healing.
Despite the promise of modern prosthetics, affordability remains a barrier. Myoelectric arms, controlled by muscle signals, can grip, rotate, and detect pressure, while future tech is exploring mind-controlled prosthetics through brain-machine interfaces.
Both Dr. Lessan and Dr. Wabwire stress the emotional toll of losing a limb, urging for counseling and peer support to help patients transition through grief and regain independence. Reintegration into society is possible with inclusive policies and public awareness.
Ultimately, transhumeral surgery, though challenging, can drastically enhance a patient’s life with the right surgical care, technology, and support.
