REHABILITATION OF LOWER LIMB AMPUTEES AND SOME IMPLICATIONS FOR SURGICAL MANAGEMENT |
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Authors: | Graeme Penington Sally Warmington Susan Hull Nicholas Freijah |
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Abstract: | Aspects of peri-operative management, amputation level and rehabilitation of the lower limb amputee are reported in the context of a review of a rehabilitation service for amputees which includes an integrated prosthetic service. Two hundred admissions were reviewed and some complex cases described. It is concluded that: a very close liaison between the surgeon and the rehabilitation team (ideally with pre-operative consultation) is in the patient's best interests; any person previously walking (or a potential walker) should be considered for a trial of prosthetic walking; an integrated prosthetic service enhances the efficiency of the rehabilitation service; and that modification of the current Artificial Limb Scheme to allow manufacture of first definitive limbs in prosthetic rehabilitation units would further enhance service to patients. |
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Keywords: | amputation amputation level peri-operative care of amputee prosthetics rehabilitation |
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