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Introduction: Electronic versions of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) seem to have a clear administrative logging advantage to traditional paper versions. However, most of them have not been formally evaluated for their suitability to replace paper outcome measures for assessment of individuals with lower-limb amputations. The aim of this study is to examine the usability and equivalence of electronic to paper versions of PROMs suitable for use in prosthetic clinical care and research for persons with lower-limb loss. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 10 participants remotely completed the following PROMs online and then on paper: Orthotic and Prosthetic User Survey (OPUS), Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES), Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), and Community Participation Indicators (CPI). Participants also answered open-ended and standardized questions regarding the usability of the electronic surveys. Wilcoxon signed rank tests, comparisons to minimum detectable change, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Bland-Altman plots were used to evaluate differences between the two survey versions, meaningful changes in scores, reliability, and systematic biases, respectively. Results: Electronic surveys had fewer missing or ambiguous responses than paper surveys; however, the PEQ Social Burdens subscale could not be evaluated due to error in the creation of the electronic survey. No significant differences were found between scores of the two versions for any of the measures, but multiple participants had meaningful changes in the Appearance and Sounds PEQ subscales. All measures demonstrated acceptable reliability between versions, except the Appearance, Perceived Response, and Sounds subscales of the PEQ. No systematic biases in scores or usability concerns were found for any measures. Conclusions: This study analysis showed that most of the electronic PROMs studied are easily used and demonstrate equivalence to the paper versions. However, the PEQ Appearance, Perceived Response, Sounds, and Social Burden subscales require further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces some efficient generalized class of factor-type exponential imputation techniques and their corresponding estimators using auxiliary information. Generalized ratio, product, and dual to ratio type exponential estimators are the special cases of our suggested imputation techniques. Biases and mean squared error expressions are derived up to the first order of large sample approximations. The proposed imputation techniques can be viewed as efficient extensions of the work of Singh and Horn [Compromised imputation in survey sampling. Metrika. 2000;51(3):267–276. doi: 10.1007/s001840000054], Singh and Deo [Imputation by power transformation. Statist Papers. 2003;44(4):555–579. doi: 10.1007/BF02926010], Toutenburg and Srivastava [Amputation versus imputation of missing values through ratio method in sample surveys. Statist Papers. 2008;49(2):237–247. doi: 10.1007/s00362-006-0009-4], Kadilar and Cingi [Estimators for the population mean in the case of missing data. Commun Stat Theory Methods. 2008;37(14):2226–2236. doi: 10.1080/03610920701855020], Singh [A new method of imputation in survey sampling. Statistics. 2009;43(5):499–511. doi: 10.1080/02331880802605114], Gira [Estimation of population mean with a new imputation methods. Appl Math Sci. 2015;9(34):1663–1672] and Singh et al. [An improved alternative method of imputation for missing data in survey sampling. J Stat Appl Probab. 2022;11(2):535–543. doi: 10.18576/jsap]. Our proposed estimators are compared with these estimators, including the mean, ratio, and regression imputation techniques. Thereafter, a numerical illustration and simulation study are conducted for a comparative study using real and simulated data sets, and the demonstration shows that our suggested estimators are the most efficient estimators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 2-year-old girl sustained severe injury to 2 fingers from a home paper shredder. This case illustrates the risk of injury from paper shredders, which are increasingly common household items. Toddlers are at risk of finger injury and amputation. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission performed an investigation of reported injuries and the characteristics of paper shredders that might have contributed to the injuries, and we summarize their findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technologies (AT) perform an important social role, interacting with cultural systems to produce or hinder accessibility to biosocial environments. This interaction profoundly shapes not only how an individual body can be experienced by users but also produce and hinder accessibility to biosocial environments. AT users have historically been viewed through a medical model, which deems them disabled by their impairments and by dominant ableist narratives. Therefore, this paper serves to provide an insight into the importance of ageing with and into AT. This paper aims to investigate polio survivors' and diabetic amputees' experiences of assistive technologies in order to better understand impacts upon narrative and identity. By applying an anthropological and sociological lens, a holistic view of the experiences of polio survivor and amputee AT users is developed. This paper draws on 16 in-depth interviews with polio survivors and diabetic amputees in the United States (US) and Australia, which were analysed using an experience-centered narrative approach. Both projects were approved by ethics boards. All participants provided written consent. Five themes were identified: a) disruption to biographies, which reflected AT impact on how narratives become altered; b) impacts to autonomy, which reflected the importance of regaining previous daily activities; c) re-engaging with community life, which highlighted how AT supported participation in valued activities; d) self-perceptions of assistive technologies, which act in opposition to external perspectives and challenge ableist narratives; and e) an intergenerational comparison of new and older AT users highlights the importance of temporalities. This paper offers new perspectives on ageing with assistive technologies, with a focus on identity and narrative. The importance of this paper is to contribute to the existing literature that demonstrates the cultural implications that arise through embodiment and assistive technologies. The use of assistive technology can help individuals regain function, but the individual circumstances require consideration The use of assistive technology is a complex entanglement of bodies, environments, biographies, and imagined futures. The use of assistive technology can provide participants autonomy over their narratives and assist with maintaining their identities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The treatment of neuromas with regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNI) has gained much attention in recent years. This systematic review compared the clinical outcomes of upper limb neuromas treated with free (fRPNI) versus vascularized RPNI (vRPNI). Methods: This systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed database was searched for relevant studies published between August 2016 and May 2023. The search term "RPNI" was used. Data including patient demographics, type of RPNI performed, mean pain duration prior to RPNI, post-operative follow-up period, the reduction in neuroma pain scores after RPNI and post-operative complications were extracted independently by two authors and recorded using standard computer software for data processing. Results: Of 43 papers identified, only four fulfilled the inclusion criteria. This provided data for upper limb neuromas in 32 patients where a total of 83 RPNIs (22 vascularized) were performed. The means for patient age, duration of neuroma pain, length of reported postoperative follow-up, and reduction in neuroma pain scores were 44.0 years, 3.6 years, 12.2 months and 86% respectively. Conclusions: The current evidence suggests that either fRPNI or vRPNI may be useful for treating upper extremity neuromas, both prophylactically and secondarily. However, the heterogeneity and inconsistencies in data reporting are such that further studies are required to compare clinical outcomes between fRPNI and vRPNI to determine if one is superior to the other. Level of Evidence: Not gradable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascularized Composite Tissue Allotransplantation (VCA) allows replacement of lost body parts from brain-dead donors. These surgeries are laborious, time-intensive, and require vast planning. With the advent of better immunosuppressants, VCA will increasingly play an important role in the reconstructive field. In this paper, the authors share their standard operating protocol created after much deliberation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic refractory complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is the severest form of this condition characterised by acute pain, other painful phenomena (hyperpathia, allodynia), severe functional impairment of the affected extremity and non-responsiveness to standard treatments. This paper presents a case of a 40-year-old man suffering from this form of CRPS, in whom all treatment options, including non-standard appeared ineffective. The patient suffered from intractable pain and a completely disabled extremity was considered by him a burden, additionally affecting his daily living. After a review of the literature and informing the patient about the potential benefits and the potential risk of failure of surgery, at the request of the patient an amputation of the upper extremity was performed at the level of 1/3 distal arm. The postoperative course was uneventful, but amputation did not result in cessation of the pain which persisted in the residual limb. The presented case shows that limb amputation for chronic refractory CRPS may not give expected beneficial effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research highlights the differences and unique experiences of military veterans experiencing amputation compared to civilians. This review aimed to synthesise qualitative research exploring the experience of amputation and rehabilitation among existing or previous members of the military. A systematic search of six databases (PsycINFO, AMED, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science and Scopus) was undertaken in March 2022. The results of 17 papers reporting 12 studies published between 2009 and 2022 were synthesised using a meta-ethnographic approach to generate new interpretations reflecting the experiences of members of the military who have experienced limb loss. Three themes were developed from the data: (1) Making the physical and psychological transition to life after amputation; (2) The role of the military culture in rehabilitation; and (3) The impact of relationships and the gaze of others during rehabilitation and beyond. Military veterans with limb loss experience difficulties in navigating civilian healthcare systems and gaining appropriate support away from the military. Rehabilitation professionals, with psychological training or mentoring, involved in the care of military veterans following amputation could offer psychological support during the transition to civilian life and targeted therapies to veterans experiencing high levels of pain, and facilitate peer support programmes. Identify at an early stage of rehabilitation those veterans at risk for poorer adjustment, by examining their propensity or not to adopt goal pursuit and goal adaptation strategies Offer psychological support prior to and after the transition to civilian life Target psychological therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to veterans who are experiencing high levels of pain Encourage peer support programmes and provide support and training to peer mentors [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Edentulous sites with limited horizontal tooth‐implant distance pose a challenge to clinicians. This case report describes root amputation of an adjacent compromised molar to maintain an optimal tooth‐implant distance Methods and Results: A 41‐year‐old female was referred for extraction and implant placement to replace her left, maxillary second premolar (#13), which had been diagnosed with a vertical root fracture. Extraction and ridge preservation of #13 was completed without complication. The 4‐month postsurgical clinical examination revealed a narrow mesial‐distal distance (5.69 mm) of the edentulous space (#13), which was influenced by the degree of divergence of the mesial buccal root of tooth #14. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis verified a periapical lesion on the mesial‐buccal root of tooth #14. The amputation of the endodontically compromised mesial‐buccal root of #14 was treatment planned to provide space and facilitate placement of a standard diameter implant without compromising the implant or adjacent teeth. Crestal bone levels were verified and maintained at the 1 year postoperative follow‐up. Conclusion: The findings of the case report demonstrate how root amputation of a compromised molar is an alternative solution for managing spatial limitations in contemporary implant dentistry. More studies are required to assess the reliability and long‐term success of this approach. Key points: Why is this case new information?There is insufficient evidence on the long‐term efficacy of narrow‐diameter implants. Clinical treatment guidelines are not sufficiently available.This paper presents an alternative approach to managing a specific scenario where mesial‐distance distance is limited using root amputation of an adjacent compromised tooth. What are the keys to successful management of this case?Comprehensive diagnosis and stringent case selectionMultidisciplinary treatment planningEvidence‐based decision making What are the primary limitations to success in this case?Very specific clinical application; adjacent compromised toothLong‐term follow up is required [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interventions are medically necessary when they are vital in achieving the goal of medicine. However, with varying perspectives comes varying views on what interventions are (un)necessary and, thus, what potential treatment options are available for those suffering from the myriad of conditions, pathologies and disorders afflicting humanity. Medical necessity's teleological nature is perhaps best illustrated in cases where there is debate over using contentious medical interventions as a last resort. For example, whether it is appropriate for those suffering from body integrity dysphoria to receive healthy limb amputations. This paper explores how one's perception of medicine's goal underpins whether interventions are necessary or unnecessary, using the controversial topic of therapeutic amputation as an example. By contrasting 'classical' amputations with their more contentious counterparts, it highlights how the idea of medical necessity influences and restrains clinical decision-making. The paper starts by giving an account of body integrity dysphoria, focusing on the debate concerning elective amputation's justifiability. It then introduces Georges Canguilhem's vitalist theory of health, paying particular attention to his emphasis on adaptability. Then, this paper uses his theory as a lens through which to evaluate the appropriateness of therapeutic amputation as a medically necessary procedure. Ultimately, the paper highlights how the label of medical necessity is withheld from potential therapeutic interventions because they fail to conform to pre-established ideas of medicine's purpose and that by doing so, potential harm befalls those who are left with no effective treatments and must look for solutions in the non-clinical world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically review literature on nutritional intake, nutritional status and nutritional interventions, and to study their association with short- and long-term clinical outcomes in people with a major dysvascular lower limb amputation. PubMed, Ovid, CINAHL, and The Cochrane Library were searched. Studies were included if nutritional intake, nutritional status, or nutritional interventions in people with a major dysvascular lower limb amputation were analyzed. Of the 3038 unique papers identified, 30 studies were included. Methodological quality was moderate (1 study) or weak (29 studies). Limited information was available on nutritional intake (2 studies) and nutritional interventions (1 study). Nutritional intake and nutritional status were assessed by diverse methods. The percentage of people with a poor nutritional status ranged from 1% to 100%. In some studies, measures of poor nutritional status were associated with adverse short- and long-term clinical outcomes. The percentage of people with a poor nutritional status is inconclusive in the major dysvascular lower limb amputation population, because of the heterogeneity of the assessment methods used. Some included studies reported a negative association between poor nutritional status and clinical outcomes. However, these results should be interpreted with caution, because of the limited quality of the studies available. Studies high in methodological quality and high in hierarchy of evidence are needed. The proportion of people with a poor nutritional status in the major dysvascular lower limb amputation population is inconclusive. Poor nutritional status seems to affect clinical outcomes negatively. More uniformity in assessment of malnutrition in the major dysvascular lower limb amputation population is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Over the past 20 years, military medicine made great strides in the medical management of traumatically injured patients. Significant advancements were made in the treatment and rehabilitation after limb loss. These advancements can be attributed to the large number of complex patients presenting to military treatment facilities and the demand for medical professionals to provide care to patients with complex injuries and multiple traumatic amputations. The concern now is to maintain the skills needed to be prepared for the next conflict. To meet this demand, the Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence (EACE) initiated the documentation of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to ensure that the skill sets needed to treat this unique population are not lost. The EACE developed KSAs to sustain advanced clinical practice for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and prosthetists and is in the process of developing KSAs for orthotists and physical medicine physicians. The learning objectives [terminal and enabling learning objectives (TLOs and ELOs)] derived from each set of KSAs will drive curricula development for enduring education, residencies, and fellowships. This article describes the KSAs and learning objectives for advanced physical therapist competencies in amputation care. Methods: Clinical subject matter experts (SMEs) convened from the Department of Defense (DoD) Advanced Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) to draft the initial KSAs. All experts had specific expertise in treating individuals with highly complex lower and upper limb amputation. In a quasi-Delphi methodology, the initial draft KSAs underwent five cycles of review and comment by an additional 15 DoD, Veterans Affairs, and civilian institution experts from clinical practice, education, and research. The consensus KSAs were then transcribed into learning objectives with collaboration between clinical subject matter experts and doctoral-level educators. Results: The final program document has 21 instructional modules with 30 TLOs and 157 ELOs. Conclusion: The KSAs and the learning objectives describe the skills expected of an advanced practice physical therapist treating patients with traumatic limb loss. Weaknesses of this document include the focus on traumatic amputation and military specific needs. However, many of the central advanced practices are universal to all physical therapists working in amputation. Thus, this document should serve as a starting point and can evolve to include dysvascular, oncology, and other etiologies. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to describe the KSAs for the advanced practice physical therapist working with traumatic limb loss population. This work will form the framework for physical therapist advanced practice training programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gait analysis is recognized as a useful assessment tool in the field of human movement research. However, doubts remain on its real effectiveness as a clinical tool, i.e. on its capability to change the diagnostic-therapeutic practice. In particular, the conditions in which evidence of a favorable cost-benefit ratio is found and the methodology for properly conducting and interpreting the exam are not identified clearly. To provide guidelines for the use of Gait Analysis in the context of rehabilitation medicine, SIAMOC (the Italian Society of Clinical Movement Analysis) promoted a National Consensus Conference which was held in Bologna on September 14th, 2013. The resulting recommendations were the result of a three-stage process entailing i) the preparation of working documents on specific open issues, ii) the holding of the consensus meeting, and iii) the drafting of consensus statements by an external Jury. The statements were formulated based on scientific evidence or experts' opinion, when the quality/quantity of the relevant literature was deemed insufficient. The aim of this work is to disseminate the consensus statements. These are divided into 13 questions grouped in three areas of interest: 1) General requirements and management, 2) Methodological and instrumental issues, and 3) Scientific evidence and clinical appropriateness. SIAMOC hopes that this document will contribute to improve clinical practice and help promoting further research in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Pathology can provide crucial insights into the etiology of disease. The goal of this review is to evaluate the rigor of histopathology reports of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Methods A systematic search of multiple databases identified papers that described amputation for CRPS with pathology findings. Control pathology articles were randomly chosen from the same journals. Landmark articles in Surgical Pathology were previously identified. Papers were categorized by the use of histology: Anatomic (microscopic description), Diagnostic (binary result), and Substrate (special studies only). A novel Histopathology Score assigned 1 point for each of 10 History elements and 15 Pathology elements. All articles were scored and analyzed by appropriate statistics. Results The search identified 22 CRPS, 50 Control and 50 Landmark articles. Multivariable analysis of the Pathology Score showed a significantly higher score for Anatomic vs Non-Anatomic papers (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) 1.54, P  < .001) and Landmark vs CRPS articles (IRR 1.39, P value.003). CRPS papers reported some elements infrequently: diagnostic criteria (31.8%), routine stain (50%), any clinic-pathologic correlation (40.9%), and sample size >2 (27.3%). Conclusions The Pathology Score is a useful quality assessment tool to evaluate studies. As expected, Anatomic papers scored significantly higher than Non-Anatomic papers. CRPS papers had small sample sizes (median 1) and infrequent reporting of diagnostic criteria, routine stain, any clinical pathologic correlation. These particular elements are crucial for analyzing and reviewing pathologic features. The analysis explains why it is quite difficult to write a meaningful systematic review of CRPS histology at this time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opponents of the provision of therapeutic, healthy limb amputation in Body Integrity Identity Disorder cases argue that such surgeries stand in contrast to the goal of medical practice – that of health restoration and maintenance. This paper refutes such a conclusion via an appeal to the nuanced and reflective model of health proposed by Georges Canguilhem. The paper examines the conceptual entanglement of the statistically common with the normatively desirable, arguing that a healthy body can take multiple forms, including that of an amputee, provided that such a form enables the continuing ability to initiate new norms of existence. It concludes that the practice of healthy limb amputation in cases of Body Integrity Identity Disorder is not only compatible with the goal of medicine but is potentially the only method of achieving this goal in the face of a complex and often mischaracterized disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Amputation of facial tissue presents difficult management problems, including cosmetic, functional, and psychological effects for the patient. A case of successful microsurgical replantation of a bitten-off vermilion of the lower lip is hereby reported. The outcome in this case was both functionally and cosmetically acceptable. A comprehensive review of the literature on the subject of lip replantation is also made in this communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trials for therapies after an upper limb amputation (ULA) require a focus on the real-world use of the upper limb prosthesis. In this paper, we extend a novel method for identifying upper extremity functional and nonfunctional use to a new patient population: upper limb amputees. We videotaped five amputees and 10 controls performing a series of minimally structured activities while wearing sensors on both wrists that measured linear acceleration and angular velocity. The video data was annotated to provide ground truth for annotating the sensor data. Two different analysis methods were used: one that used fixed-size data chunks to create features to train a Random Forest classifier and one that used variable-size data chunks. For the amputees, the fixed-size data chunk method yielded good results, with 82.7% median accuracy (range of 79.3–85.8) on the 10-fold cross-validation intra-subject test and 69.8% in the leave-one-out inter-subject test (range of 61.4–72.8). The variable-size data method did not improve classifier accuracy compared to the fixed-size method. Our method shows promise for inexpensive and objective quantification of functional upper extremity (UE) use in amputees and furthers the case for use of this method in assessing the impact of UE rehabilitative treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An external hemipelvectomy (hindquarter amputation) is a major mutilating amputation that includes the lower extremity and half of the pelvic rim. It is rarely performed due to its mutilating character and the technical difficulties involved. The main indications for the operation include sarcomas and extensive trauma. In this paper, the authors discuss the historical aspects and current status of this rare operation, as well as its role in the oncological approach to sarcomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: With the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the world, diabetic foot, an important complication, has attracted increasing attentions. Relevant research literature has been gradually increased for bibliometric analysis. OBJECTIVE: To measure and visually analyze the research literature regarding diabetic foot in the past 10 years using CiteSpace V software, and to explore the research status, subjects and global development trend in this field, so as to provide reference for researchers in the field of diabetic foot. METHODS: The Web of Science database was searched for diabetic foot-related literature published from 2010 to 2019. Literature information such as the amount of papers issued, the number of citations and highly cited literature were counted. All the data were exported, and analyzed using CiteSpace V software with regard to research subjects, research hotspots and frontiers. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 6 811 articles were included in the study, and the number of articles published and cited in this field increased steadily in the past 10 years. Relevant journals mainly focus on wound repair or nursing, such as JOURNAL OF WOUND CARE, in which, 188 relevant articles have been issued. The top 10 journals have an average impact factor of 2. Highly cited literatures mainly address relevant diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines and introduce new materials for promoting healing. The United States ranks first with 1 930 articles and 29 186 citations, followed by the United Kingdom and China. Based on a comprehensive analysis of average number and proportion of citations, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States have publications of higher quality in this field. Among the top 20 research institutions, Manchester University, University of Washington, and University of Arizona rank top 3. Shanghai Jiao Tong University has the largest number of papers in China, while Southwest Hospital of Third Military Medical University and Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing University have established good international cooperation relations. The visual clustering of 14 key words shows that amputation, Charcot’s foot and nephrosis are the main concerns of the academic community, indicating that great attention should be paid to the prognosis and quality of life, followed by stem cell therapy and biofilm. It is suggested that basic and clinical research on diabetic foot shows vigorous vitality in this field. The research timeline has shown that the research focus has changed from treatment to quality of life, prevention and health care. Burst hotspot analysis shows that in vitro experiment, cell therapy and biofilm are the research frontiers in this field. To conclude, future research on diabetic foot should underline the following aspects: firstly, increase prevention efforts and reduce incidence rate; secondly, reduce amputation rate and improve quality of life; and thirdly, strengthen interdisciplinary integration and construct regional treatment network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We set out to estimate healthcare costs of diabetes complications in the year of first occurrence and the second year, and to quantify the incremental costs of diabetes versus non-diabetes related to each complication. Methods: In this cohort study, people with diabetes (n = 45 378) and their age/sex propensity score matched controls (n = 90 756) were identified from a linked dataset in Tasmania, Australia between 2004 and 2017. Direct costs (including hospital, emergency room visits and pathology costs) were calculated from the healthcare system perspective and expressed in 2020 Australian dollars. The average-per-patient costs and the incremental costs in people with diabetes were calculated for each complication. Results: First-year costs when the complications occurred were: dialysis $78 152 (95% CI 71 095, 85 858), lower extremity amputations $63 575 (58 290, 68 688), kidney transplant $48 487 (33 862, 68 283), non-fatal myocardial infarction $30 827 (29 558, 32 197), foot ulcer/gangrene $29 803 (27 183, 32 675), ischaemic heart disease $29 160 (26 962, 31 457), non-fatal stroke $27 782 (26 285, 29 354), heart failure $27 379 (25 968, 28 966), kidney failure $24 904 (19 799, 32 557), angina pectoris $18 430 (17 147, 19 791), neuropathy $15 637 (14 265, 17 108), nephropathy $15 133 (12 285, 18 595), retinopathy $14 775 (11 798, 19 199), transient ischaemic attack $13 905 (12 529, 15 536), vitreous hemorrhage $13 405 (10 241, 17 321), and blindness/low vision $12 941 (8164, 19 080). The second-year costs ranged from 16% (ischaemic heart disease) to 74% (dialysis) of first-year costs. Complication costs were 109–275% higher than in people without diabetes. Conclusions: Diabetes complications are costly, and the costs are higher in people with diabetes than without diabetes. Our results can be used to populate diabetes simulation models and will support policy analyses to reduce the burden of diabetes. What is known about the topic? Most of the costs related to diabetes are due to management of complications. What does this paper add? Diabetes complication treatment required substantial healthcare resources, even after the first year of occurrence. Costs of treating complications are higher for people with diabetes versus those without. What are the implications for practitioners? Complications identified as key drivers should be preferentially targeted to reduce diabetes burden. Our results can be used as input for economic models to simulate the costs associated with the progression of diabetes and to assess the cost-effectiveness of interventions that reduce complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-traumatic lower limb amputation rates are rising worldwide, resulting in increased hospitalisations and use of rehabilitation services. This study aimed to identify key comorbidities associated with prolonged length of stay or decreased functional gain for episodes receiving inpatient rehabilitation following non-traumatic lower limb amputation. Methods: Prospectively collected data submitted to the Australasian Rehabilitation Outcomes Centre were analysed. The cohort comprised episodes for patients (aged ≥18 years) discharged from inpatient rehabilitation between 1 July 2013 and 30 June 2018 following a non-traumatic lower limb amputation. Results: The cohort included 5074 episodes with an average age of 66.3 years and the majority being male (71.7%). Comorbidities affecting the ability to participate in rehabilitation were reported for 65.4% of episodes, most commonly diabetes mellitus (50.3%), cardiac disease (33.5%), and respiratory disease (10.1%). These comorbidities were associated with a prolonged length of stay and reduced functional improvement. Conclusion: This study showed comorbidities contribute to prolonged length of stay and poorer functional outcomes among those undergoing inpatient rehabilitation following non-traumatic lower limb amputation. Future research should focus on strategies to address these comorbidities to help improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. What is known about the topic? It is known that the presence of comorbidities contributes to lower limb amputation; however, the effect that comorbidities have on inpatient rehabilitation outcomes is not well reported. What does this paper add? This study identified five comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, cardiac disease, respiratory disease, renal failure with dialysis, and mental health problems) associated with prolonged length of stay and decreased functional outcomes following inpatient rehabilitation for non-traumatic lower limb amputation. What are the implications for practitioners? Our findings suggest practitioners should focus on strategies to address these comorbidities to help improve functional outcomes, reduce length of stay, and reduce healthcare costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study characterizes the demographics and durable medical equipment needs of persons with disabilities to improve utilization and management of resources at a philanthropic rehabilitation clinic. Paper charts from all encounters between 2013 and 2018 were reviewed. Data collected include sex, age, ethnicity, insurance status, diagnoses, and durable medical equipment requested/received. Paper charts that were incomplete or illegible were excluded. Among 763 individuals, there were 1157 encounters for durable medical equipment requests. Forty-six percent of individuals were uninsured. Thirty-seven percent had federal insurance such as Medicare or Medicaid, and 6% private insurance. Fifty-five percent of individuals were Hispanic, 28% African American, and 14% White. Fifty-six percent of encounters were with individuals with a neurological diagnosis, 18% medical diagnosis, 17% musculoskeletal/autoimmune diagnosis, 6% amputation diagnosis, and 3% cancer diagnosis. Of the 2680 items distributed, 34% were wheelchair parts and repair, 30% personal hygiene/incontinence supplies, 25% mobility equipment, and 11% bathroom equipment. Of the 513 unmet items requested, 49% were mobility equipment, 24% wheelchair parts and repair, 17% personal hygiene/incontinence supplies, and 11% bathroom equipment. More than a third (43%) of durable medical equipment requests were from individuals with either private insurance or federal payers, which implies lack of adequate coverage on durable medical equipment to maintain mobility and independence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the impact that developments in the field of neuroprosthetics will have on the ethical viability of healthy limb amputation, specifically in cases of Body Integrity Identity Disorder (BIID). Developments in the field have meant that the prospect of such artificial components matching the utility of their biological counterparts is now a possibility. As such, arguments against the provision of therapeutic, healthy limb amputation, which are grounded in the perceived resultant harm of disability, need to be reconsidered. Drawing on philosophical insights, as well as the field of disability studies and BIID research, this paper argues that such neuroprosthetics presents a challenge for the fundamental dichotomy between the disabled and non-disabled, including the latter's perceived superiority. It goes on to suggest that healthy limb amputation, for those with BIID, should not be dismissed simply because of the distastefulness of the procedure, but rather be evaluated based upon its own merits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This review identified key concepts describing decision-making for amputation. • Ninety-four papers were identified for inclusion in this review. • International Classification of functioning, Disability and Health framework used. • Personal and lifestyle factors are important considerations for amputation. • A biopsychosocial approach to decide if amputation would improve quality of life. Living with a diabetes-related foot ulcer has significant lifestyle impacts. Whilst often considered a last resort, amputation can overcome the burden of ulcer management, for an improved quality of life. However, limited research has been conducted to understand how the decision to amputate is made for people with a chronic ulcer when amputation is not required as a medical emergency. Therefore, the aim was to identify and map key concepts in the literature which describe the decision-making for diabetes-related amputations. This review followed Arksey and O'Malley's PRISMA scoping review framework. Five electronic databases and grey literature were searched for papers which described clinical reasoning and/or decision-making processes for diabetes-related amputation. Data were extracted and mapped to corresponding domains of the World Health Organisation's International Classification of functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Ninety-four papers were included. Personal factors including emotional wellbeing, quality of life, and treatment goals are key considerations for an elective amputation. It is important to consider an individual's lifestyle and personal circumstances, as well as the pathology when deciding between amputation or conservative management. This highlights the importance of a holistic and shared decision-making process for amputation which includes assessment of a person's lifestyle and function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial, lipoprotein-driven condition that leads to plaque formation within the arterial tree, leading to subsequent arterial stenosis and thrombosis that accounts for a large burden of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally. Atherosclerosis of the lower extremities is called peripheral artery disease and is a major cause of loss in mobility, amputation, and critical limb ischemia. Peripheral artery disease is a common condition with a gamut of clinical manifestations that affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States of America and 200 million people worldwide. The role of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins, such as LDL and remnant lipoproteins in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, is well-established. The focus of this paper is to review existing data on lipid-lowering therapies in lower extremity atherosclerotic peripheral artery disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic foot lesions are common lesions that can occur in other diseases, which are manifested mainly in the diabetic patient. These lesions can cause severe changes in a diabetic patient. In this paper, we reviewed the literature, exemplified by our own case study, in which we described each lesion separately, emphasizing its particularities in the case of the diabetic patient. Early recognition of diabetic foot lesions is extremely important for both the diabetologist and the general practitioner, as this can save the patient from amputation. The shorter the time from detection of the lesion to the initiation of treatment, the greater the chances of a cure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Amputations are a devastating consequence of severe burns. Amputations in a resource-limited setting are challenging as rehabilitation services available to these patients are inconsistent and often fragmented. Epileptic patients are a particularly vulnerable group when it comes to burn-injuries and often sustain deeper burns. The aim of this study is to analyse amputations secondary to burn injuries. We seek to identify vulnerable groups as a means for advocacy efforts to reduce the devastation of an amputation secondary to a burn injury. This paper highlights the burden of these injuries on the healthcare system and emphasizes the need for additional trained therapists for the rehabilitation of these patients.Methods: A retrospective database review was conducted. All burns admissions who underwent an amputation between 1 February 2016 and 31 January 2019 were considered.Results: A total of 1575 patients were admitted during the study period. Fifty-four percent of the admissions were paediatric patients. The amputation rate in the paediatric population was 1.5% (13/850) while in the adult population it was 4.8% (35/724) . Most paediatric amputations were as a result of electrical injuries. Flame burns were most likely to result in amputations in the adult group and convulsions were the leading circumstance leading to the injury. There was no significant difference in sepsis or length of stay between the groups. There were no mortalities in the paediatric group but there was an 11% mortality rate in the adult group.Conclusion: The incidence of amputations in burns is low, however, it remains a devastating morbidity. Epileptics are a vulnerable group and these patients account for the most amputations among adult burns patients. Education interventions are needed regarding their diagnosis, administration of their medication and the importance of compliance. Advocacy efforts to ensure constant supply of anti-epileptic drugs at the clinics and other district level health facilities is also essential. Electrical injuries in children are not as common as hot water scalds, however, they are more likely to result in amputation. Communities need to be informed of the risk associated with illegal electrical connections and initiatives need to drive the safe provision of affordable electricity to these under-privileged, vulnerable communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a commentary on "Vascular amputees: A study in disappointment" (Little et al. 1974) and its significance in the development of the disability rights movement, as well as the movements for values-based medicine and person-centred health and social care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amputated femurs traditionally have multiple health concerns, including the risk of infection. One way to mitigate this risk could be to use an intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prosthesis (ITAP), which is a way of attaching a prosthesis directly to the bone of the user. This paper attempts to customize an ITAP used in a transfemoral amputation so that it fails in a controlled manner, should failure be unavoidable. ABS specimens were 3D Printed and tested to understand how current designs fail. From these tests, an alternative design was developed. Simulations were conducted to insure the optimized design would withstand expected forces from walking. Titanium samples were then produced using additive manufacture and were subjected to tensile testing. These specimens incorporated a notch in the centre of the specimen to act as a stress concentrator. The design presented in this paper identified that the location of failure should move towards the prosthesis, and away from the femur. It was also shown that, titanium was found to have a greater breaking force than the femur; and is therefore not viable for use at this current stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand loss is a catastrophic event that generates significant demands for orthopedics and prosthetics. In the course of history, prostheses evolved from passive esthetic replacements to sophisticated robotic hands. Yet, their actuation and particularly, their capacity to provide patients with sensations, remain an unsolved problem. Sensations associated with the hand, such as touch, pain, pressure and temperature detection are very important, since they enable humans to gather information from the environment. Recently, through a synergistic multidisciplinary effort, medical doctors and engineers have attempted to address these issues by developing bionic limbs. The aim of the bionic hands is to replace the amputated hands while restoring sensation and reintroducing hand-motor control. Recently, several different approaches have been made to interface this sophisticated prosthesis with residual neuro-muscular structures. Different types of implants, such as intramuscular, epineural and intraneural, each have their own complementary advantages and disadvantages, which are discussed in this paper. After initial trials with percutaneous leads, present research is aimed at making long-term implantable electrodes that give rich, natural feedback and allow for effortless control. Finally, a pivotal part in the development of this technology is the surgical technique which will be described in this paper. The surgeons' insights into this procedure are given. These kinds of prostheses compared with the classic one, hold a promise of dramatic health and quality of life increase, together with the decrease the rejection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Running-specific prostheses (RSPs) are biomechanically designed to enable individuals with lower limb amputations to engage in high level sports.Research Question: What is the influence of RSP use on the running biomechanics of individuals with lower limb amputations?Methods: An article search was conducted in six databases since their inception to July 2021. Two independent reviewers assessed the title, abstract and full texts in the review process. The quality of the papers was appraised. The review included a total of 35 articles.Results: Main findings indicate force production is a limitation of RSPs. Individuals with lower limb absence employ a variety of compensatory strategies such as adjusting their step frequency, contact length and joint kinetics to improve their running performance. Leg stiffness modulation and external factors relating to the RSP design and fitting play important roles in RSP biomechanics. For individuals with unilateral amputations, the increased loading of the intact limb could increase the risk of acute injury or chronic joint degradation.Significance: To improve their running performance, runners with lower limb amputations employ various compensatory strategies, such as altering the spatiotemporal and kinetic parameters. Factors relating to RSP height, stiffness, shape, and alignment also play an important role in terms of running biomechanics and should be considered in RSP design and fitting. Future studies should focus on the use of RSPs for recreation, in pediatric populations, with certain amputation levels, as well as the impact of training and running techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We summarize Kato's paper (1941) on the pink teeth phenomenon in 203 rabbits. • Various findings on oral tissues after hanging or strangulation were obtained. • Pink teeth in fresh corpses may indicate asphyxia caused by cervical compression. • Enormous experimental data are expected to be used in other forensic studies. The effects on oral tissues of asphyxiation caused by cervical compression were investigated in 203 rabbits by Kiyotoshi Kato, who published four papers in classical Japanese in Kokubyo Gakkai Zasshi (now The Journal of the Stomatological Society, Japan) in 1941. The aim of this review is to summarize and disseminate the enormous amount of experimental data (reprint permission in English has been obtained from the journal). Based on the experimental models of hanging, strangulation with an external force equal to body weight, and strangulation with an external force equal to 1/10th body weight, the macroscopic and histological findings of the oral region immediately after death, including the respiratory condition until death and ocular conjunctival petechiae, were obtained and compared with 4 cases of human strangulation. Strangulation after each of four physical conditions (anesthesia, starvation, alcohol intake, and bleeding) was also investigated. Experiments were performed to investigate the effects of tracheal obstruction, cervical vein ligation, common carotid artery ligation, cervical nerve amputation, or combinations thereof. In the discussion focusing solely on tooth discoloration, it was suggested that the presence of pink teeth at a stage when putrefaction has little or no effect might be a finding indicative of death from asphyxiation caused by cervical compression. This review provides detailed data on the condition of oral tissues after asphyxiation caused by cervical compression and is expected to be used not only for elucidating the mechanism of the pink teeth phenomenon but also for conducting other forensic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mangled extremity is the most devastating limb injury and presents a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. There are two main treatment options, reconstruction or amputation, but sometimes indications for either are not clear. There are many pro and contra arguments for both options. To make the decision easier numerous score systems have been introduced, but the final decision is based on the judgment and experience of the treating surgeon. Early extremity reconstruction appears to give better results than delayed or late reconstruction and should be the treatment of choice where possible. The goal in reconstruction of a lower extremity is to restore and maintain balance and ambulation, while restoration of an upper extremity's numerous functions is more demanding. In this paper the authors describe and suggest treatment approaches in patients with a severely mangled extremity, including assessment and treatment of all injured tissues, using defined protocols, with special attention to bone stabilization, revascularization, soft-tissue coverage and nerve reconstruction. These have a great impact on the outcome and function of the injured extremity. Rehabilitation and return to the preinjury level is slow and sometimes uncertain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Transverse tibial bone transport technique is an emerging treatment for diabetic foot in recent years. At present, a large number of studies have confirmed its significant efficacy and high safety in the treatment of diabetic foot, but there is still a lack of evidence. Therefore, a Meta-analysis on the treatment of diabetic foot by transverse tibial bone transport technique was conducted. METHODS: CNKI, VIP, WanFang, PubMed, Cochrane library, and EMbase were searched for randomized controlled trials regarding transverse tibial bone transport technique for the treatment of diabetic foot. The retrieval time was from inception to February 2020. The quality of the included literature was strictly evaluated, and the Rev Man5.3 software was used for the meta-analysis of amputation rate, healing rate, healing time, skin temperature and Visual Analogue Scale pain score. RESULTS: A total of 8 randomized controlled trials involving 837 cases were included, with 428 cases in treatment group and 409 in control group. The literature quality evaluation results showed that: the quality evaluation of the case-control experiment was carried out according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, with 2 papers scoring 7 points; according to the improved Jadad scale, four randomized controlled trials were evaluated with 4 marks and two evaluated with 2 marks. Meta-analysis results showed that compared with the control group, the amputation rate [odds ratio (OR)=0.12, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.05, 0.26), P < 0.000 01), healing rate [OR=28.65, 95%CI (16.45, 49.88), P < 0.000 01), healing time (OR=2.61, 95%CI (-4.23, -0.98), P=0.002], skin temperature (OR=2.44, 95%CI (2.27, 2.61), P < 0.000 01), Visual Analogue Scale score (standard mean difference=-6.41, 95%CI (-9.50, -3.32), P < 0.000 1) were all improved in the treatment group with transverse tibial bone transport for treating diabetic foot . CONCLUSION: Transverse tibial bone transport technique is of high safety and has significant advantages over conventional treatments in the treatment of diabetic foot. Limited by the quantity and quality of included studies, the above conclusions need to be verified by more high-quality studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of losing a limb in military service extends well beyond initial recovery and rehabilitation, with long-term consequences and challenges requiring health-care commitments across the lifecourse. This paper presents a systematic review of the current state of knowledge regarding the long-term impact of ageing and limb-loss in military veterans. Key databases were systematically searched including: ASSIA, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, Web of Science, PsycArticles/PsychInfo, ProQuest Psychology and ProQuest Sociology Journals, and SPORTSDiscus. Empirical studies which focused on the long-term impact of limb-loss and/or health-care requirements in veterans were included. The search process revealed 30 papers relevant for inclusion. These papers focused broadly on four themes: (a) long-term health outcomes, prosthetics use and quality of life; (b) long-term psycho-social adaptation and coping with limb-loss; (c) disability and identity; and (d) estimating the long-term costs of care and prosthetic provision. Findings present a compelling case for ensuring the long-term care needs and costs of rehabilitation for older limbless veterans are met. A dearth of information on the lived experience of limb-loss and the needs of veterans' families calls for further research to address these important issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores ethical considerations for active studies of circumcision, i.e., the amputation of the foreskin, in the form of a case study of three major trials performed in African countries in the early 2000s. The paper outlines the function of the foreskin and method and history of its amputation as well as its current use in attempting to combat the global AIDS crisis. These trials are then interrogated in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. In particular, the irreversible nature of amputation is given great consideration. The case studies are found to have serious failures in terms of the modern iteration of the Declaration of Helsinki. This paper calls for extreme scrutiny in accordance with international norms relating to the ethical treatment of human subjects in a research context of studies of circumcision if and when they are proposed again. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

‘Maintaining independence’ is a core project for many older people; a project which has received critical attention within aging studies. In this paper, we extend the critique by exploring how aging intersects with disability and militarism as additional critical subjectivities. The empirical focus of the paper is the narratives of older military veterans who had lost a limb either during or post-service. Data reveal the long legacy of military experience in the lives of these veterans; a legacy which is manifested in both negative and positive outcomes. A dominant narrative of ‘struggling against decline’ is identified, while ‘minimization’, ‘victimhood’, and ‘life-as-normal’ emerged as further narrative types through which veterans articulated their experiences of aging with limb loss. Findings from this study highlight both resilience and vulnerability as features of older veterans' experiences of aging with limb loss. Building on previous critiques, we add further nuance to understandings of how older people might respond to the narrative of decline, and illustrate multiple possible meanings of claims to ‘normality’. By sharing the stories of older limbless veterans, we aim to contribute to – and connect – several fields of study including aging studies, critical disability studies, and critical military studies. Findings are discussed in light of current trends in each of these fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aims of this study were to review the demographic details of those who have undergone lower limb amputation (LLA) surgery in Central Australia and determine the region-specific age-adjusted incidence rate of LLA. Methods: A retrospective audit of service users who underwent LLA in a Central Australian hospital from 2012 to 2017 was undertaken. Demographic, operative and postoperative outcomes data were collected. The age-adjusted incidence rate of LLA was determined using the direct method. Demographic data were analysed using descriptive parametric analysis. Results: In the period 2012–17, 166 service users underwent a total of 291 amputations in 231 episodes of care (hospital admissions). The age-adjusted incidence rate of LLA was 87.4 per 100 000 for females and 104.6 per 100 000 for males in this region. In total, 84% (n = 140) of those requiring amputation surgery identified as Aboriginal Australians (P < 0.001), 54% (n = 75) of whom were female. Aboriginal Australians who underwent LLA were, on average, 13 years younger and were more likely to have type 2 diabetes (P < 0.001) and require renal dialysis (P < 0.001) than the non-Aboriginal Australian cohort. Of the Aboriginal Australians who underwent LLA, 82% (n = 103) lived very remotely (>100 km from the central town's centre), compared with 23% of non-Aboriginal Australians (P < 0.001). In addition, 46% (n = 64) of Aboriginal Australians who underwent LLA required renal dialysis. Those requiring renal dialysis were more likely to require subsequent amputation (P = 0.014) and had a higher mortality rate following amputation (P = 0.031). Partial foot amputation was the most common level of amputation in Central Australia (38%). Conclusions: Central Australia appears to have the highest incidence rate of LLA for any region in Australia, with Aboriginal Australians, particularly females and those undergoing renal dialysis, being disproportionately represented. Further studies should aim to determine targeted, culturally safe and successful methods of diabetic foot ulcer prevention, early detection and management with a view to reducing the high amputation rates for these cohorts. What is known about the topic?: Large health inequalities between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians exist. Aboriginal Australians are currently fourfold as likely as non-Aboriginal Australians to have type 2 diabetes (T2D), increasing their risk of LLA. There is a geographical variance in the incidence of LLA in Australia; the Northern Territory is overrepresented, with rates two- to threefold higher than that of the national average. Regional incidence rates are not currently known. What does this paper add?: This study showed that the age-adjusted incidence rate for LLA in Central Australia is significantly higher than in other regions in Australia. Most LLA surgeries undertaken in Central Australia were performed for Aboriginal Australians who have T2D, with a disproportionate representation of females and those requiring renal dialysis. What are the implications for practitioners?: This study shows that there is a need for further research and preventative measures to address the high rates of LLA among Aboriginal Australians, particularly for females and those with renal impairment. These groups could benefit from targeted, culturally safe approaches to early identification, referral and management of lower limb ulceration by relevant service providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anemia was found to be prevalent in patients with diabetes mellitus. Higher rates of anemia were reported in patients having diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). With the presence of an altered microcirculation, the potential negative effects of anemia might impede ulcer healing leading to higher rates of amputation and mortality. Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, were searched for from inception to locate relevant papers reporting any association between anemia and diabetic foot ulcers. The meta‐analysis included 15 studies with 2895 patients. The weighted prevalence anemia rates of the total, mild‐to‐moderate DFU, and severe DFU groups were as follows: 69.7%, 49.5%, and 73%, respectively. For the hemoglobin level outcome, the same samples yielded the following pooled means: 11.00 ± 1.13, 12.08 ± 0.8, and 10.57 ± 0.68 g/dl. Individual studies showed association between low levels of hemoglobin and higher rates of non‐healing ulcer, amputation, and mortality. This review demonstrated (a) a clear association between the presence of anemia and diabetic foot ulcers, (b) a clear association between the severity of anemia and the severity of DFUs, and (c) that anemia could be a predictor of amputation and mortality. Whether anemia is a predictor of adverse outcomes or an independent risk factor is to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Introduction: Lower-limb amputation (LLA) due to trauma is a life-changing medical event that challenges daily physical functioning. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the physical function outcomes in patients with major traumatic LLA. Methods: A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed for the review methodology. Observational studies on physical function outcomes post major traumatic LLA, with sample sizes of at least 10 adults in an outpatient setting and published in English were included. The Downs and Black scale was used to assess methodological quality and articles were assigned a level of evidence. Results: The initial search retrieved 4626 articles, and 69 met the inclusion criteria. On average, papers had poor methodological quality. The traumatic LLA population was found to have numerous mobility challenges and reduced physical fitness, with unilateral transtibial amputation resulting in the best outcomes. There was a lack of literature on female populations, civilians, and patients from low- and middle-income countries. Conclusions: Given the changes in mobility and physical health, multidisciplinary care teams are essential to manage traumatic LLA individuals' rehabilitation programs and health. Higher-quality research is needed to support evidence-based clinical recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sociological concern for rehabilitation remains limited. This paper aims to contribute to rehabilitation theory. It examines two units of a specialist rehabilitation hospital in the UK (amputee and neurological services) by focusing on the key actors involved – families, patients, staff – and the parameters shaping their relationships. The findings extend previous theoretical understandings of rehabilitation in three themes: normality, liminality and depersonalisation. We argue, first: normality is constantly negotiated amongst the different actors. This complicates existing works' critique of rehabilitation as reproducing the ideology of normality. Second, discourses produced during acute care shape the inpatient rehabilitation experience. This calls attention to the pre‐rehabilitation phase and complicates existing works' emphasis on the transition from inpatient stay to the time of discharge. Finally, inpatient rehabilitation is notable in rendering the adverse effects of depersonalisation apparent. It combines the bureaucracy of a regular hospital ward, with institutionalising aspects of long‐term care. These findings have a potential to enhance practice as well as knowledge. We call for a deeper sociological attention, combining theory‐building with empirical data for a better understanding of inpatient rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The appearance of a symptomatic neuroma following finger amputation is a devastating consequence for patient's quality of life. It could be cause of chronic neuropathic pain. The prevention of neuroma formation is a challenging effort for hand surgeons. The biological mechanisms leading to neuroma formation are mostly unknown and different preventing procedures have been tried without certain results. In this paper, a panel of Italian hand surgeons have been asked to express appropriateness about potentially preventive techniques of neuroma formation following the RAND/UCLA appropriateness protocol.Methods: A literature review was preliminarily performed identifying the most employed methods to reduce the pathologic nerve scar. Afterwards, the selected panelists were asked to score the appropriateness of each procedure in a double scenario: in case of a sharp amputation or in a tear injury. The appropriateness was evaluated according to RAND/UCLA protocol.Results: Nine Italian hand surgeons were included in the panel. Of them 5 were orthopaedic surgeons, 4 plastic surgeons. The identified appropriate procedures were: revision amputation should be done in operating room, the neurovascular bundles should be identified and is mandatory to treat surrounding soft tissues. Only in case of clean-cut amputation, it is appropriate to perform a proximal extension of the dissection, to use diathermocoagulation and coverage with local flaps. Procedures such as shortening in tension of the nerve stump, bone shortening, implantation of the nerve end in the soft tissue, treatment in the emergency room and, in both scenarios, certain results are evaluated as uncertain.Discussion: In order to prevent the formation of a distal stump neuroma few methods were judged appropriate. It is mandatory to identify the neurovascular bundles and treat also the surrounding tissues, but no certain results could be obtained with local flap, bone shortening and other ancillary surgical acts. Moreover, it is not possible to guarantee the non arising of neuroma in any cases, also when every procedure has been temped.Conlusions: The prevention of distal neuroma is actually a challenge, without a well known strategy due to the variability of response of nervous tissue to injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the impacts of disability on poverty in rural Cambodia. I combine a natural experiment and spatial blocking. First, I focus on amputation among adults due to landmines, which is free from measurement errors and the onset of which is an exogenous shock. Second, I conduct an original survey stratified by disability status within villages where people have shared the same local vulnerability to landmine accidents. This research design enables matching analysis within small geographic areas, treating demographic factors, such as household formation and fertility, as endogenous. This quasi-experimental study finds that amputation greatly reduces consumption and income, but not subjective well-being (i.e., adaptation), increasing poverty and augmenting its magnitude. Disability triggers a vicious circle of reduced work, low earnings, and limited accumulation of productive assets and social capital. This work-cum-asset channel leads to adverse intergenerational effects on child schooling and child labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In post-amputation rehabilitation, a common goal is to return to ambulation using a prosthetic limb, suspended by a customised socket. Prosthetic socket design aims to optimise load transfer between the residual limb and mechanical limb, by customisation to the user. This is a time-consuming process, and with the increase in people requiring these prosthetics, it is vital that these personalised devices can be produced rapidly while maintaining excellent fit, to maximise function and comfort. Prosthetic sockets are designed by capturing the residual limb's shape and applying a series of geometrical modifications, called rectifications. Expert knowledge is required to achieve a comfortable fit in this iterative process. A variety of rectifications can be made, grouped into established strategies [e.g. in transtibial sockets: patellar tendon bearing (PTB) and total surface bearing (TSB)], creating a complex design space. To date, adoption of advanced engineering solutions to support fitting has been limited. One method is numerical optimisation, which allows the designer a number of likely candidate solutions to start the design process. Numerical optimisation is commonly used in many industries but not prevalent in the design of prosthetic sockets. This paper therefore presents candidate shape optimisation methods which might benefit the prosthetist and the limb user, by blending the state of the art from prosthetic mechanical design, surrogate modelling and evolutionary computation. The result of the analysis is a series of prosthetic socket designs that preferentially load and unload the pressure tolerant and intolerant regions of the residual limb. This spectrum is bounded by the general forms of the PTB and TSB designs, with a series of variations in between that represent a compromise between these accepted approaches. This results in a difference in pressure of up to 31 kPa over the fibula head and 14 kPa over the residuum tip. The presented methods would allow a trained prosthetist to rapidly assess these likely candidates and then to make final detailed modifications and fine-tuning. Importantly, insights gained about the design should be seen as a compliment, not a replacement, for the prosthetist's skill and experience. We propose instead that this method might reduce the time spent on the early stages of socket design and allow prosthetists to focus on the most skilled and creative tasks of fine-tuning the design, in face-to-face consultation with their client. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about the weight distribution to the remaining limbs for amputee dogs that undergo orthopedic surgery. The objective of the paper was to describe stance and weight distribution after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in forelimb and in hind limb amputees (AmpTPLO) and to compare them to four-legged TPLO patients (4LTPLO) and amputees without TPLO (Amp). Weight bearing distribution at a stance was compared between groups. Joint angles of forelimb and hind limb joints in a sagittal plane, hind limb orientation in a frontal plane, and pelvic orientation in a transverse plane (pelvic tilt) were measured and compared between groups. Results: Joint angles, hind limb abduction, and pelvic tilt of AmpTPLO and Amp did not differ statistically. Mean weight bearing in the operated hind limb was higher for AmpTPLO than 4LTPLO. Mean weight bearing for thoracic limbs of AmpTPLO and 4LTPLO did not differ statistically. Weight bearing of the hind limb of AmpTPLO and Amp did not differ statistically. Conclusions: The position of the center of mass and posture of AmpTPLO and Amp does not differ. The weight distribution and posture of Amp is not impacted negatively by TPLO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fingertip amputation injuries are common hand injuries amongst all ages. If occurring as a result of workplace accidents, these injuries has the potential to lead to significant socioeconomic costs. Non-surgical techniques can treat these injuries with the potential to alleviate the burden of these socioeconomic costs. The aim of our study is to describe an alternative, cost-effective device to manage fingertip amputation injuries, and to present our short-term outcomes with this treatment modality. Methods: A retrospective study of patients with isolated fingertip amputation injuries who received treatment with semi-occlusive dressing and splint cap from 1 February 2018–21 December 2018 was conducted. The semi-occlusive dressing used was UrgoTul. The splint cap is a 3-dimensional thermoplastic splint to cover the semi-occlusive dressing of the injured finger. Results: There were 28 patients and 31 digits. The average age was 39.9 ± 12.7 years. 89.3% were male, 75% were foreign workers, 96.4% were blue-collared workers, 40% had dominant hand injuries and 25.8% had nailbed involvement. The average duration of follow-up was 66 ± 37.4 days and the average duration of hospital leave was 6.5 ± 4 weeks. The splint cap was applied for an average of 18.1 ± 6.2 days. The total time for tissue regrowth was 27.5 ± 8.8 days. 14.8% had residual nail deformities and return of sensation took 31.5 ± 11 days. Grip strength was 82.5% of unaffected hand. The mean range of motion at the distal interphalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joint was 58.8 ± 21.3°, 86.9 ± 15.5°, 81.4 ± 6.0° respectively, and 63.9 ± 23.6° and 66.3 ± 17.3° at the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb respectively. Cost analysis will be further elaborated in the paper. Conclusions: Fingertip amputation injuries have a potential for regeneration through healing by secondary intention under semi-occlusive dressing conditions. The splint cap provides an easy to fashion, cost-efficient and comfortable addition to semi-occlusive dressings for fingertip injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background  Replantation of a single digit at the distal phalanx level is not routinely performed since it is technically challenging with questionable cost-effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to analyze international microsurgeons' clinical decisions when faced with this common scenario. Methods  A survey of a right-middle finger distal phalanx transverse complete amputation case was conducted via online and paper questionnaires. Microsurgeons around the world were invited to provide their treatment recommendations. In total, 383 microsurgeons replied, and their responses were stratified and analyzed by geographical areas, specialties, microsurgery fellowship training, and clinical experiences. Results  Among 383 microsurgeons, 170 (44.3%) chose replantation as their preferred management option, 137 (35.8%) chose revision amputation, 62 (16.2%) chose local flap coverage, 8 (2.1%) chose composite graft, and 6 (1.6%) favored other choices as their reconstruction method for the case study. Microsurgeons from the Asia-Pacific, Middle East/South Asia, and Central/South America regions tend to perform replantation (70.7, 68.8, and 67.4%, respectively) whereas surgeons from North America and Europe showed a lower preference toward replantation (20.5 and 26.8%, respectively p  < 0.001). Having completed a microsurgery fellowship increased the attempt rate of replantation by 15.3% (p  = 0.004). Clinical experience and the surgeons' specialties did not show statistical significance in clinical decision making. Conclusion  From the present study, the geographic preferences and microsurgery fellowship experience influence the method of reconstruction for distal phalanx amputation. Multiple factors are taken into consideration in selecting the most suitable reconstructive method for each case scenario. In addition to the technical challenges of the proposed surgery, the cost of the procedure and the type of facility needed are important variables in the decision making process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]