What is the medical term for the removal of a body part?

The term "amputation" specifically refers to the surgical removal of a limb or part of a limb. This procedure can be necessary due to various medical reasons, such as severe injury, infection, or disease that affects the blood supply to a part of the body. Amputation implies a complete removal of the part, distinguishing it from other surgical terms that may involve partial removal or excision of tissue, such as resection or excision.

Resection generally refers to the removal of a segment of an organ or structure, often to address diseases like cancer. Excision is a broader term that encompasses the removal of tissue or a lesion but does not specifically imply the removal of a body part in its entirety, as amputation does. Dislocation refers to a joint injury where the bones are displaced and does not involve the removal of any body part. Thus, amputation is the most accurate and specific term for the complete removal of a body part.