Article

Children and adolescents with congenital limb deficiencies are visibly and
physically different from their peers. They present limitations in activities,
depending on the severity of deficiency. Therefore they are at risk for lower
participation in social and leisure activities. This might negatively influence
the perception on their quality of life. The aim of this narrative review is to
describe participation and quality of life in children with congenital limb
deficiencies. Participation and quality of life are relatively new concepts.
Psychosocial functioning, being closely related to the concept of quality of
life, is described as well. A comprehensive review of the literature was
conducted on participation, quality of life and psychosocial functioning in
children and adolescents with congenital limb deficiencies. The review involved a
systematic search using multiple data sources. Fifteen cross-sectional studies
were included in this review. The literature to date provides limited knowledge
on how children and adolescents with congenital limb deficiencies participate and
how they perceive their quality of life. The psychosocial functioning, although
described as at risk, appears to be comparable to healthy peers. In conclusion,
more research is needed on how children and adolescents with congenital limb
deficiencies participate and how they perceive their quality of life. A broader
perspective will not only help parents in making the right choices for their
children, but can also have implications for health care providers, teachers and
agencies funding rehabilitation services.

Langue : ANGLAIS