A case of amputation from post-Medieval Wolverhampton.
Left ulna
The shaft is primarily absent, with only a small portion of the proximal end present, due to an amputation. Distal extent of the bone is diminished and has an irregular pitted surface. There are three anterior projections of bone, one below the coronoid process and two distal to the radial notch on the lateral border of the shaft.
Left radius
The shaft is primarily absent, with only a small portion of the proximal end present, due to an amputation. There is a large nodule of bone anterolaterally, which may be a remnant of the radial tuberosity. Distal extent of the bone curves anteriorly, is diminished in size, and has an irregular pitted surface.
Note: When compared to the right side the shoulder, arm and forearm shows considerable atrophy, most likely from disuse. The level of amputation on the ulna is at that of the radius exactly. There is a chance that this individual lost their arm in an accident, rather than it being surgically removed.
If anyone has an opinion on if this was an accidental industrial amputation or surgical amputation, please leave a comment (top right of this post).
Is there an indication of straiation or tool marks on the bones? Especially kerf markings where the amputation took place. If so I would say then it was surgical.
Those calcium formations/growths are fascinating. Almost like the bone was trying to regrow.
There is no indication of striations or tool marks. However, the amputation occurred a long time before death. The bone is well healed and has considerable atrophy. It is possible that any surgical cut marks have long since healed and it is possible that there never was any.