Quality of life among Filipino amputees after prosthetic rehabilitation at the UERMMMCI Philippine School of Prosthetics and Orthotics Charity Clinic / The Health Sciences Journal

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Amputation is often associated with depression, isolation and anxiety, resulting in changesin the functioning and quality of life of an individual. This study aimed to compare the quality of life ofamputees before and after prosthetic rehabilitation and to determine the level of satisfaction with theservices provided by the rehabilitation team.METHODS: This was a longitudinal study conducted at the Philippine School of Prosthetics and Orthoticsfrom 2016 to 2017. Quality of life was measured at baseline and at the end of prosthetic rehabilitationusing the Short Form-36 version 2 Philippines (Tagalog) and compared. Patient satisfaction was determinedusing the UERMMMCI Out-Patient Satisfaction Survey. Statistical analysis was done using paired t-testand stratified analysis.RESULTS: Twelve participants were included; majority were adult males and all were unemployed. Therewere 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 forfemales. On the other hand, males had statistically significant increases in vitality scores. Participantswere generally satisfied with the services they received.CONCLUSION: While no significant changes were observed for overall quality of life, certain aspects may berelated to factors such as sex, comorbidities, and type of caregiver. Recommendations include further studiesto explore other factors affecting quality of life among Filipino amputees after prosthetic rehabilitation.