Article

The capacity of servicemembers with amputation to return to duty after
combat-related amputation and the associated disabilities remains largely
unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the disabling conditions and
return to duty rates of servicemembers with amputation across all service
branches following major limb amputations from September 2001 through July 2011.
Pertinent medical information, military occupation status, return to duty
designation, disabling conditions, and disability ratings for each servicemember
were obtained from the Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Office (PEBLO). Across
all service branches, 16 (2%) servicemembers were found fit for duty (Fit) and
allowed to continue with their preinjury occupation. Another 103 (11%) were
allowed to continue on Active Duty (COAD) in a less physically demanding role.
More than half (554, 56%) were determined fully disabled (PEBLO rating > 75); the
average disability rating was 73. COAD and Fit Army servicemembers had lower
Injury Severity Scores than other servicemembers (17.4, p = 0.009 and 11.2, p <
0.001, respectively). Despite improvements in their care and rehabilitation, only
13% of all servicemembers with amputation are able to return to Active Duty and
many have multiple disabling conditions that contribute to a very high level of
disability.

Langue : ANGLAIS