A functional and social review of lower-limb amputees

Abstract

The results of 119 lower-limb amputations for ischaemic disease in 105 patients over a 6-year period are reviewed to assess their progress and rehabilitation. The patients had an average age of 69.84 years at the time of the first amputation. The hospital mortality was 18.1 per cent. Life expectancy after amputation was seldom more than 3 years. A long period of hospitalization was accepted in order to achieve a high proportion of rehabilitated patients. Of those discharged, only 6 who came from their own homes had to be sent to an institution. A study was made of the 52 surviving amputees. Forty-six patients were visited in their homes. The remaining 6 patients were traced and followed up by letter. A high standard of rehabilitation was maintained once amputees had been satisfactorily settled into the community, even though 11 out of 44 ambulant patients discontinued walking in favour of a wheelchair life.