Use of Prosthesis in the Burn Induced Upper Extremity Amputees

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Many amputees do not use their prostheses consistently because of the unhelpfulness or discomfort. In this point, this survey was to assess the prosthetic problems in their function and willingness to use. METHOD: We investigated the 18 burn induced upper extremity amputees of Hankang Sacred Heart Hospital Burn Center with the questionnaire or interview. RESULTS: The mean age was 39.6 years at the time of amputation & 43.3 years at the time of survey. Their amputation levels were composed of 72.2% of below elbow and 27.8% of above elbow. The using time of prosthesis was revealed that 'all day long' use in 50%, 'going out' use in 33.3% and 'living activity' use in 11.1%. Their complaint for prosthetic problems were discoloration (38.9%), poor appearance (27.8%), sweating (27.8%) and inadequate function (22.2%). Considerable number of them suffered from residual burn wound or scar in contact with a socket (27.8%) and itching and tingling sensation (22.2%). Employment was not accomplished in 61.1% of the amputees. CONCLUSION: The information thus obtained in this investigation would be expected to be helpful in the prosthetic prescription and rehabilitation training of upper extremity amputees for their welfare.