Patient Requests for Burial of Amputated Limbs

Patient requests that amputated limbs be preserved for private burial, although infrequent, are regular occurrences in the United States. No formal data exist on the incidence, but the practice is encouraged within several major religious traditions and supported by some strains of folk culture. Podiatric surgeons may find that addressing the issue proactively with patients who are anticipating amputation could help the process of grieving and adjustment necessary for healing after loss.
Source: Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Tags: Commentary Source Type: research