Rehabilitation of a quadruple amputee subsequent to electrical burns sustained whilst hang gliding.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to describe the management, difficulties encountered and level of independence achieved during the initial stage of a quadruple amputee's rehabilitation.


METHODS
This is a case study of the rehabilitation of the first known person losing all four limbs due to electrocution whilst hang gliding.


RESULTS
The patient became a successful upper limb prosthetic user and returned to work six hours a day. Full independence in activities of daily living was not achieved nor considered practical. Independent walking was accomplished in physiotherapy. however an electric wheelchair remains the only functional means of mobility.


CONCLUSIONS
The rehabilitation is described in detail to assist those managing such a rare and complex case.
Davidson
J
J
The Prince Henry Hospital. Sydney NSW, Australia. judyd@accsoft.com.au
Champion
S
S
Cousins
R
R
Jones
L
L
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000671:Amputation, Surgical / Q000379:methods / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001132:Arm; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000628:therapy*; D002058:Burns, Electric / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D015601:Injury Severity Score; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000379:methods; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000379:methods; D011788:Quality of Life; D013177:Sports; D016896:Treatment Outcome