Article

PURPOSE: To systematically review studies on quality of life (QoL) in lower limb
amputees. METHOD: Computerised literature search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PUBMED and
PsycINFO databases was performed using the keywords, amputee, leg, knee, foot,
amputation, QoL, prosthesis, orthopaedic equipment, ADL, phantom, mobility,
rehabilitation, psychosocial, psychology and social. Eligible studies published
from database inception through March 2009 were selected. The study was included
if (1) the study population comprised of adolescent and adult lower-limb amputees
as a group or a sub-group, and had ten or more subjects; (2) the study involved
subjective assessment of QoL or self-appraisal of life or satisfaction with life;
(3) the study was an empirical research study and (4) at least one of the study
outcomes was QoL or self-appreciation of life, and QoL results were presented.
The selected articles were assessed for study quality based on a standardised set
of 19 criteria. The criteria list was pilot-tested for applicability and
operationalisation by the authors. Objectives, study population description, QoL
instruments used and study outcomes were summarised for the included studies.
RESULTS: Twenty-six articles met the inclusion criteria. Fifteen studies were
cross-sectional, four prospective, six 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 summary quality score was 50% or more for
ten studies, with the maximum being 81%. CONCLUSIONS: Lacunas were found in the
methodological and study population characteristics of most of the studies.
Prospective longitudinal studies are envisaged to systematically study the events
following amputation, and the change in QoL over time. To enable this, amputee
specific standardised and validated QoL instruments are needed to capture the
multitude of facets influencing QoL in amputees, and thereby, facilitating direct
comparison across studies.

Langue : ANGLAIS