JRRD at a Glance
Residual-limb quality and functional mobility 1 year after transtibial amputation caused by vascular insufficiency
Henk J. Arwert, MD, et al.
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We conducted a study to identify which residual-limb quality factors relate to functional mobility by evaluating 28 subjects 1 year after transtibial amputation. The residual-limb quality was assessed in general and with respect to specific bony factors. We tested functional mobility with the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire, the Locomotor Index, and the Timed Up and Go test. We found that general residual-limb quality (Chakrabarty score) and tibial length were both correlated with increased functional mobility. Every patient with transtibial amputation deserves an adequate residual limb. The surgeon responsible for the amputation procedure needs evidence-based guidelines about the residual-limb characteristics that will offer the patient the best chance to regain mobility. This study is a small step in the development of such a guideline. |
Volume 44 Number 5 2007
Pages 717 — 722
