title: [Rehabilitation following amputation].
abstract: Rehabilitation after amputations is a complex interdisciplinary task which depends on numerous factors: the reason for and the level of the amputation, the quality of the stump and the limb fitting, the patient's general mental and physical state, and particularly his and his family's motivation. Strictly speaking, the normal functions can never be fully restored, even with the help of the most up-to-date techniques and rehabilitation facilities. For optimal results, full coordinated use should be made of the available methods of diagnosis and treatment. The course of rehabilitation is determined from the outset by the level of the amputation and the surgical technique. Emphasis is put on stump treatment, limb fitting, and training of the amputee, with or without a prosthetic replacement. Technical aids also are extensively used in the rehabilitation of amputees and includes various items for performing daily activities, from the workplace to the wheel chair. Even when fully equipped, a small number of amputees still remain permanently dependent on others.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Baumgartner
mesh_terms: D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D000672:Amputation Stumps; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D006801:Humans; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000534:rehabilitation*
vernacular_title: Wiedereingliederung nach Amputationen.