Assessing prosthetic functionality and satisfaction in Malaysian lower limb amputees: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Lower limb amputation presents significant challenges to physical function and quality of life.
• Prosthetic utilization is key for restoring mobility and independence in amputees.
• Understanding user experiences is vital for optimizing prosthetic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate physical abilities, satisfaction, and experiences of Malaysian lower limb amputees.
• To identify determinants influencing these factors, focusing on prosthetic use.
• To inform targeted interventions for Malaysian amputees.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 70 lower limb amputees (34 transfemoral, 36 transtibial).
• Comprehensive survey covering demographics, amputation details, prosthetic use, physical capabilities, satisfaction, and challenges.
• Data analysis using SPSS with descriptive and inferential statistics.

Main Results:

• Participants used prostheses daily (>10 hours), but faced limitations in activities like sports and stair climbing.
• Satisfaction was high for walking on level/uneven surfaces, but lower for stair negotiation.
• Common issues included perspiration, skin irritation, and piston problems; comorbidities significantly influenced outcomes.

Conclusions:

• This study highlights the prosthetic satisfaction and experiences of Malaysian lower limb amputees.
• Key factors in prosthetic design, fitting, and rehabilitation require attention for improvement.
• Targeted interventions and further research are necessary for the Malaysian population.