[Subjective impairment after macroamputation of the upper extremity]
1Universitätsklinik für Unfallchirurgie und Sporttraumatologie, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, Austria. markus.gabl@uki.at
Handchirurgie, Mikrochirurgie, Plastische Chirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Handchirurgie : Organ Der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft Fur Mikrochirurgie Der Peripheren Nerven Und Gefasse : Organ Der V
|March 7, 2008
Summary
Upper limb amputation significantly impacts patients, causing high psychological and functional impairment. Unemployment is high due to pain, functional deficits, and suboptimal prosthetics, affecting overall quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Prosthetics
Background:
- Subjective outcomes after upper limb macroamputation were assessed.
- The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score was utilized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the subjective outcomes in patients with upper limb amputations.
- To identify factors contributing to functional and social impairment.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 11 male patients with upper limb stumps following trauma.
- Data collected included injury pattern, age, amputation level, and DASH scores 5.6 years post-injury.
Main Results:
- Mean DASH score was 44.8, with higher scores in bilateral amputees (74.16).
- 36% of patients were unemployed, reporting pain and functional deficits.
- Psychological impairment was rated higher than functional impairment in unilateral amputees.
Conclusions:
- Macroamputation of the upper extremity leads to significant psychological and functional deficits.
- Suboptimal prosthetic devices and pain contribute to high unemployment rates.
- Despite challenges, patients reported social integration.
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