Amputations Resulting From Systemic Sclerosis: The Role of Multidisciplinary Cooperation

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex connective tissue disease involving microvasculopathy, immune dysregulation, and extensive organ fibrosis. It affects various systems including the skin, lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. Management is challenging due to the disease's heterogeneity and often requires more than just pharmacological treatment. Severe cases may necessitate amputation due to complications like tissue necrosis. This case report discusses the treatment of a 60-year-old man with cutaneous diffuse SSc who required multiple upper limb amputations due to progressive gangrene. Despite initial pharmacological and vascular interventions, the patient's condition led to metacarpophalangeal and transradial amputations. A multidisciplinary approach was crucial in determining the level of amputation and managing post-surgical rehabilitation. Following the transradial amputation, the patient participated in a comprehensive rehabilitation program to optimize functional recovery and prepare for prosthesis fitting. The case highlights the need for a multidisciplinary strategy in managing severe SSc complications and underscores the importance of tailored rehabilitation in improving functional outcomes and quality of life for amputees.