The consequences of the lower limp amputation in health related quality of life

Introduction:The lower limb amputation have significant effects on physical and mental health of patients, while at the same time consists a serious socio-economic problem, as it is associated with increased morbidity, multiple surgeries, prolonged hospital stay and increased disability rates. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the amputation of the lower extremity in quality of life of these people. Methodology:The present systematic review included medical and nursing literature review using electronic databases such as MEDLINE, CINAHL, PUBMED and PsycINFO. The following keywords were used: amputee, leg, knee, foot, amputation, QoL, prosthesis, mobility, rehabilitation, psychology. Results: Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies were cross sectional, one prospective, one retrospective and one mixed study-design. The studies were found to be heterogeneous with respect to the study objectives and instruments used to assess QoL. The factors affecting the QOL in patients with lower limp amputation is depression, perceived prosthetic mobility, social support, comorbidity, addition problems, age, and participation in social activities. Immediately after the amputation, participants reported reduced QOL, but over time, the level increased due to the adjustment in position. The young age, the male gender, the highly education level and the traumatic origin were associated with better QOL. Conclusions: Amputee specific standardized and validated QoL instruments are needed to capture the multitude of facets influencing QoL in amputees, and thereby, facilitating direct comparison across studies. 

Keywords: Amputation, lower extremity, quality of life, psychological impact, physical impact