[Rehabilitation of amputees]

An optimal rehabilitation result following amputation in each individual case depends on the smooth cooperation of the surgery department and the rehabilitation clinic. Equally important ist the good cooperation between physicians, physical therapists and orthopedic technicians. A decisive influence on the outcome of rehabilitation is already exercised with the choice of height of the amputation site and the operative technique. A positive development can be intensified by an early prosthesis fit and practice. It is imperative that the amputation be seen as the beginning of the patient's rehabilitation and not as a failure and the end of efforts to preserve the extremity. The degree of mobility achievable depends very decisively on the patient's remaining ability and will to succeed.