title: An improved modality in lower extremity amputee rehabilitation.
abstract: Early rehabilitation of the lower extremity amputee has been achieved in 150 men and women with an average age of 63.2 years. Diabetes was present in 47 patients; all were smokers; 108 had associated cardiovascular disease; 32 had pulmonary disease. Ambulation began at 48 hours with a pneumatic externally supported device. It was total contact, equal pressure throughout (40 mmHg). There were no complications; all patients received a definitive prosthesis 21 to 93 days after amputation. The most common cause of delay in prosthetic use was financial.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D004434:Early Ambulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011474:Prosthesis Design