The dermatologist's role in amputee skin care.

Amputees face many challenges associated with residual limbs. Overall, amputees have an increased risk for skin disease occurring at residual limb sites. Although prosthetists and primary care physicians often accomplish routine care, the dermatologist plays a very important role within the multidisciplinary team. Many military dermatologists have unique clinical experience treating amputees, as a portion of their practice consists of providing care to soldiers with traumatic amputations from complex and dramatic blast injuries. Although current therapies and preventative treatments are for the most part successful, future research involving advanced technology is promising.