Related Experiment Videos
Functional outcome following traumatic upper limb amputation and prosthetic limb fitting
M S Pinzur1, J Angelats, T R Light
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Early prosthetic fitting after traumatic upper limb amputation significantly improves functional rehabilitation. Prompt prosthetic limb fitting and training lead to high rates of return to work and sustained daily use.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Traumatic upper limb amputations require effective rehabilitation strategies.
- Restoration of function is crucial for patient quality of life and return to work.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of early prosthetic limb fitting and training in patients with traumatic upper limb amputations.
- To determine the long-term functional outcomes and prosthetic use following traumatic upper limb amputation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 19 consecutive patients undergoing traumatic upper limb amputation.
- Analysis of prosthetic limb fitting timelines, prosthesis type (body-powered, cable-driven), and functional proficiency.
- Assessment of return to work and daily prosthetic use at long-term follow-up (12-110 months).
Main Results:
- 18 of 19 patients received prosthetic limb fitting.
- 15 patients had preparatory prosthetic fitting within 30 days post-amputation.
- 17 of 18 patients returned to work, with 15 maintaining daily functional use (>8 hours/day).
Conclusions:
- Early prosthetic fitting and training, initiated as soon as the residual limb tolerates the socket, maximizes functional rehabilitation outcomes.
- Prompt prosthetic intervention following traumatic upper limb amputation is associated with a high probability of successful return to work and sustained functional use.