Assessing Functional Ability in Patients with Unilateral Trans-tibial Amputation for Vascular Disease

Abstract

In this study we describe and compare the functional ability of unilateral trans-tibial dysvascular amputees by two different methods: the Swedish version of the Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living (Katz Index of ADL) and the Functional Rating Scale for Amputees (FRSA-scale). Fifty patients newly amputated for vascular disease and living either in their own homes or in sheltered housing (24 women and 26 men; mean age 79 years, SD 7, range 61–92 years) were assessed at discharge from hospital and at six months after the amputation. The results revealed that the majority of the patients were dependent on another person on both occasions. In conclusion, to assess functional ability in patients newly amputated for vascular disease in the ward, the Katz Index of ADL appears to be an appropriate instrument. However, the FRSA-scale seems to be more appropriate for monitoring and documenting changes in functional ability with a prosthesis later on in the rehabilitation period. Further evaluation studies are required for the FRSA-scale before it can be recommended for wider use.

Key Words:

• activities of daily living
• amputee assessment
• functional ability
• rehabilitation