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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface: Surgical Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial in Postamputation Pain
Published on: March 15, 2024
Patient quality of life determinants in decision-making regarding amputation
Carly Lightstone1, Naomi Eisenberg2, Sherry Harburn3
1Trilight Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) undergoing amputation experience significant psychological challenges. Addressing these preoperative emotional needs and building trust in healthcare teams is crucial for better surgical outcomes and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Psychological Adjustment
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Psychological adjustment pre-amputation impacts functional and emotional outcomes.
- Understanding perioperative psychological challenges for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) patients is vital for effective healthcare support.
- Integrating psychological care into planning optimizes outcomes and supports holistic healing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the psychological challenges faced by patients with PAD undergoing amputation.
- To provide insights for surgeons to enhance preoperative care.
- To identify key themes in psychological adjustment to amputation.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with patients post-amputation.
- Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke's (2006) guidelines.
- Interviews conducted 5-10 days post-amputation.
Main Results:
- Theme 1: Breaking Point - diminished quality of life threshold due to PAD suffering.
- Theme 2: Meaning Attributed to Amputation - varied patient perceptions of the procedure's impact.
- Theme 3: Trust in the Healthcare Team - importance of communication and patient-provider relationship.
Conclusions:
- Addressing preoperative emotional and psychological needs improves surgical outcomes.
- Fostering trust and providing tailored preoperative support enhances recovery and reduces negative cognitions.
- Future research should focus on integrating psychological care into surgical practice for better emotional and functional outcomes.
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