Article

The authors suggest standardized questionnaires of quality of life to
perform a long term evaluation of patients who underwent a replantation of the
proximal upper limb. METHODS: This retrospective study is about patients who
underwent a replantation of the proximal upper limb between 1979 and 2011. The
functional assessment was conducted using several tools including the 400 points
test, the sensory tests, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand
questionnaire and the CHEN's classification. Some questionnaires, like the
Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 dealt with the physical and the psychological
sides of the quality of life. Other questionnaires were more specific, like the
Body Image Scale. RESULTS: Sixteen patients were included. The survival rate of
the replanted limb was 75%. The mean follow-up was 12.7 years. We noted 20% good
results with a mean DASH score to 24.5%. The quality of life was similar to the
general population in most of 50% of cases. Some patients had depressive symptoms
or body image troubles. CONCLUSIONS: In our eyes, the evaluation of quality of
life seems essential for these patients. Survival rates, functional results,
follow-up, professional activity, gender and body image troubles influence the
quality of life. Besides, the physical side and the psychological side must
change together to affect the overall results of the quality of life.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : FRANCAIS