A study published in Prosthetics and Orthotics International found a similar quality of life when comparing people with partial foot and transtibial amputations.
Using a mail survey, Researchers compared the quality of life in 10 patients with partial foot amputation and 23 patients with transtibial amputation secondary to peripheral vascular disease. Survey results showed that age, time with diabetes and the presence of retinopathy significantly influenced quality of life but amputation type did not.
The results suggest surgeons and patients may inform a choice between these two types of amputation by focusing on other considerations, such as relative risk of ulceration and subsequent amputation, without fear of compromising quality of life.
Reference:
Quigley M, et al. Prosthet Orthot Int. 2015; doi:10.1177/0309364614568414.
Disclosures: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
