Grace Hospital in Winnipeg suspends amputations after patient deaths

Winnipeg Regional Health Authority investigating after two patients die following amputations

The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) has suspended amputation surgeries at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg after two patients died following the procedures.

The WRHA said in a statement that the decision was made out of an abundance of caution while it investigates the deaths of the two patients.

The WRHA said the patients died within days of each other in late July and early August.

The WRHA said it is working with the Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) to provide support to the families of the deceased patients.

The SCO is a First Nations organization that represents 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba.

The WRHA said it is committed to providing safe and quality care to all patients.

The WRHA said it will provide more information as it becomes available.

What is an amputation?

An amputation is the surgical removal of a limb or part of a limb.

Amputations can be necessary for a variety of reasons, including:

• Trauma
• Infection
• Cancer
• Vascular disease

Amputations can be performed at different levels, depending on the severity of the injury or disease.

The most common type of amputation is a below-knee amputation.

Other types of amputations include:

• Above-knee amputation
• Hip disarticulation
• Hemipelvectomy
• Forequarter amputation
• Hindquarter amputation

Amputations can be a life-changing event.

Patients who have undergone an amputation may experience physical, emotional, and social challenges.

However, with the help of rehabilitation and support, patients can learn to live full and active lives.

What are the risks of amputation?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with amputation.

These risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain
• Phantom limb syndrome
• Death

The risks of amputation vary depending on the type of amputation, the patient's overall health, and the skill of the surgeon.

It is important to discuss the risks of amputation with your doctor before making a decision about surgery.

How to prevent amputation

There are a number of things you can do to prevent amputation, including:

• Controlling blood sugar levels if you have diabetes
• Quitting smoking
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting regular checkups

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of amputation.