Predicting prosthetic use in elderly patients after major lower limb amputation

Background: The main determinants of prosthetic use known from literature apply to the younger patient with lower limb amputation. Studies aimed at identifying determinants of outcome of lower limb amputation in elderly patients with multimorbidity that rehabilitate in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are scarce. Objectives: To predict prosthetic use and physical mobility in geriatric patients admitted to SNFs for rehabilitation after lower limb amputation and the impact of multimorbidity. Study Design: Prospective design. Methods: Univariate and multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses were used to identify determinants that were independently related to prosthetic use and the timed-up-and-go test (TUG test). Results: Of 55 eligible patients, 38 had complete assessments on admission and at discharge. Fifty per cent was provided with a prosthesis. Multimorbidity was present in 53% of the patients. Being able to ambulate independently, and having a transtibial amputation (rather than a higher level of amputation), without phantom pain determined prosthetic use (R2=56%), while cognitive abilities, low amputation level, and pre-operative functional abilities were independently associated with the TUG test (R2=82%). Conclusions: Elderly patients referred to an SNF for prosthetic training have a high probability of using a prosthesis when having an independent ambulation after transtibial amputation, without phantom pain. These patients should be considered for prosthetic training. Clinical relevance This study gives more insight into the outcomes of geriatric patients with lower limb amputation after rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. This is the first study that focuses on determinants of prosthetic use in these elderly patients, often with multimorbidity.