The process of becoming a user of an osseointegrated prosthesis following transfemoral amputation: a qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate what characterizes the process of becoming a user of an osseointegrated prosthesis following transfemoral amputation.

Method: The study is based on the descriptive phenomenological framework Reflective Lifeworld Research. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with seven participants who had undergone transfemoral implant surgery and currently used their osseointegrated prosthesis. Data were analyzed according to the guidelines given in Reflective Lifeworld Research.

Results: The essential meaning of becoming a user of an osseointegrated prosthesis is characterized by determination to achieve rehabilitation results as well as a struggle to get familiar with the new prosthesis. When familiar with the prosthesis, participants begin to experience radical improvements in their everyday life, compared to their life with the socket suspended prosthesis. The essential meaning is elaborated on in four constituents: Determination to achieve rehabilitation results with the short training prosthesis, struggling to get familiar with the osseointegrated prosthesis, experiencing improvements in everyday life and reconnecting with one’s prior self-perception.

Conclusion: All the participants experienced increased action space and a more positive outlook on life. However, it took determination and stamina to become a user of an osseointegrated prosthesis, and participants faced several challenges throughout this process. Consequently, it remains important to raise awareness of the difficulties faced during this process.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• The findings from this study suggest an increased healthcare support to users of an transfemoral osseointegrated prosthesis in the period of rehabilitation and adjustment, as the results of being able to use the osseointegrated prosthesis may outweigh the obstacles of getting there.

• Implementation of long-term follow-up and psychosocial support initiatives may improve the adjustment process following osseointegration.

• Support of patients with an osseointegrated prosthesis may be facilitated through formation of specific rehabilitation groups together with increased use of information technology such as social media and relevant online communities which provide forums for interaction and dialog with people in similar situations.

Keywords:

• Osseointegration
• transfemoral amputation
• amputee
• prosthesis user
• rehabilitation
• qualitative study

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Marie Juhl Rathmann (MScN) for conducting and transcribing three of the interviews.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.