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Published in: Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation 4/2018

01-12-2018 | Review

Factors Influencing Functional Outcomes and Return-to-Work After Amputation: A Review of the Literature

Authors: Benjamin J. Darter, Carolyn E. Hawley, Amy J. Armstrong, Lauren Avellone, Paul Wehman

Published in: Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation | Issue 4/2018

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Abstract

Purpose Amputation is a life changing event that can significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental well-being. Our objective was to review literature exploring the impact of amputation upon a person’s functioning and inclusion in the workplace. Methods Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched using keywords related to amputation, employment and community reintegration. Eligible studies were published since 2000 and one of the following study designs: randomized controlled trial, non-randomized controlled trial, retrospective study, prospective study, concurrent cohort study, or cross sectional study. Studies for civilians with amputation as well as service members and Veterans with amputation were considered for inclusion. Results The search identified 995 articles, 25 of which met inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the review. While strong evidence for correlations and predictors of outcomes after amputation were limited, multiple factors were identified as contributing to physical functioning and employment after amputation. Conclusions Outcomes after amputation can vary widely with many potentially inter-related factors contributing. The factors identified may also serve to inform the development of interventions aiming to improve functional performance and reintegration after amputation. Furthermore, the review highlights the need for more high quality prospective studies.
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Metadata
Title
Factors Influencing Functional Outcomes and Return-to-Work After Amputation: A Review of the Literature
Authors
Benjamin J. Darter
Carolyn E. Hawley
Amy J. Armstrong
Lauren Avellone
Paul Wehman
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation / Issue 4/2018
Print ISSN: 1053-0487
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3688
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-018-9757-y

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