CHECKLIST USE FOR ASSESSMENT OF SATISFACTION WITH TRANS-TIBIAL PROSTHESES.

Abstract

ObjectiveTo assess satisfaction of prosthesis users with their prostheses, and the problems they experience with the residual limb, using a checklist, in order to evaluate potential benefits of checklist use and to summarize issues and problems with the prosthesis and/or residual limb presented by prosthesis users.DesignCross-sectional study.SubjectsParticipants were adult trans-tibial prosthesis users (n = 82) and certified prosthetist orthotist (n = 19) experienced in fitting lower-limb prostheses.MethodsProsthesis users reported their reasons for consultation and factors concerning prosthesis (dis)satisfaction and residual limb problems, using a checklist. Checklist use was evaluated by certified prosthetist orthotists and prosthesis users and the significance of evaluation scores was determined.ResultsChecklist use identified 126 issues/problems, most of which concerned prosthesis fit (33%) and pressure points on the residual limb skin (26%). Evaluation scores were significantly higher than neutral regarding the checklist helping the certified prosthetist orthotist to gather more information and to make clear with which issues the prosthesis user was dissatisfied. Prosthesis users reported that checklist use made them feel more understood by the certified prosthetist orthotist.ConclusionChecklist use in the assessment of trans-tibial prostheses is beneficial in identifying factors related to dissatisfaction, and improves the quality of certified prosthetist orthotists’ consultation. The implementation of checklist use is, however, challenging.LAY ABSTRACTUsing a checklist, this study assessed prosthesis user’s satisfaction with their prosthesis in persons with a below-knee amputation, and evaluated the potential benefits of using a checklist. A total of 82 persons with an amputation and 19 prosthesis specialists participated in completing the checklist and evaluation forms during the prosthesis-checking consultation. By using the checklist, more issues and problems were mentioned than prior to consultation, mostly concerning the prosthesis fit and the occurrence of pressure points on the residual limb. Evaluation showed that, by using the checklist, more information was gathered during the consultation concerning issues with which the prosthesis user was dissatisfied. Prosthesis users reported that using the checklist made them feel more understood by the prosthesis specialist.