Article

Substantial improvements have been perceived in surgical results
following major lower limb amputation, but there remains observed variation in
amputation quality for patients referred for prosthetic rehabilitation from
different hospitals. OBJECTIVES: To assess various elements that influence
residual limb quality and evaluate their impact on progress through initial
prosthetic rehabilitation and mobility outcome after rehabilitation. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical survey. METHODS: A revised 10-item residual limb scoring system
was used to survey a succession of 95 primary amputees with transtibial and
transfemoral amputations (100 residual limbs) presenting for rehabilitation.
RESULTS: The majority of residual limbs scored highly, supporting the perception
of generally good amputation quality. There were significant differences in
average residual limb scores between some hospitals. The overall scores showed
weak or minimal correlation to progress through rehabilitation and mobility
outcome but residual limbs scoring higher in seven of the items of the score
showed significant advantages in key aspects of progress or mobility at
discharge. CONCLUSION: There is need for continued collaboration between surgeons
and rehabilitation centres to ensure consistent high standards. The revised
residual limb score used in this survey needs further refinement for future use.
Clinical relevance Residual limb quality is an important component influencing
prosthetic rehabilitation.
This survey of residual limbs at one Rehabilitation
Centre suggests encouragingly good surgical results but highlights differences
between hospitals. A particular issue is the need for effective collaboration
between surgeons and prosthetic rehabilitation professionals to optimise residual
limb preparation.

Langue : ANGLAIS