HomeHealth Sciences Journalvol. 8 no. 1 (2019)

Quality of life among Filipino amputees after prosthetic rehabilitation at the UERMMMCI Philippine School of Prosthetics and Orthotics Charity Clinic

Hannah Lois G. Tarroja | Cherryrich M. Cheng

 

Abstract:

Introduction Amputation is often associated with depression, isolation and anxiety, resulting in changes in the functioning and quality of life of an individual. This study aimed to compare the quality of life of amputees before and after prosthetic rehabilitation and to determine the level of satisfaction with the services provided by the rehabilitation team. Methods This was a longitudinal study conducted at the Philippine School of Prosthetics and Orthotics from 2016 to 2017. Quality of life was measured at baseline and at the end of prosthetic rehabilitation using the Short Form-36 version 2 Philippines (Tagalog) and compared. Patient satisfaction was determined using the UERMMMCI Out-Patient Satisfaction Survey. Statistical analysis was done using paired t-test and stratified analysis. Results Twelve participants were included; majority were adult males and all were unemployed. There were no statistically significant changes in the quality of life of amputees after prosthetic rehabilitation. Stratification analysis revealed significant decreases in scores in bodily pain and general health scales for females. On the other hand, males had statistically significant increases in vitality scores. Participants were generally satisfied with the services they received. Conclusion While no significant changes were observed for overall quality of life, certain aspects may be related to factors such as sex, comorbidities, and type of caregiver. Recommendations include further studies to explore other factors affecting quality of life among Filipino amputees after prosthetic rehabilitation.