What Are the Ethical Issues in Treating a Patient With Bilateral Leg Gangrene Incapable of Consenting to Amputation Secondary to Psychiatric Illness?

摘要

Background Bilateral and simultaneous lower extremity amputations unrelated to diabetes and peripheral vascular disease are uncommon, although they may be necessary in patients with severe blast injuries. Such amputations, however, usually are performed in patients who are able to understand and consent to the treatment.