The Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scales and quality of life in people with lower-limb amputation.
OBJECTIVE
To undertake preliminary research into quality of life (QOL) for a group of people with a lower-limb amputation and to investigate what aspects of the "prosthetic experience" are most strongly associated with QOL using the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scales (TAPES).


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey.


METHODS
Prosthetic limb fitting center.


METHODS
Sixty-three people older than 18 years with unilateral lower-limb amputation.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
The TAPES and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire-Brief Version.


RESULTS
There were no significant differences in any of the QOL domain scores (physical health, psychological, social relationships, environmental) arising from age, gender, level of amputation, or cause of amputation. However, there were significant differences depending on the length of time living with the prosthesis and the degree of prosthetic use. Stepwise regression identified different significant predictors for each domain of QOL.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings support the claim that the TAPES can be used to evaluate QOL for this patient group. Further research is warranted to learn how sensitive the scale and its items are to change in clinical status.
Gallagher
Pamela
P
Faculty of Science and Health, School of Nursing, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland. pamela.gallagher@dcu.ie
Maclachlan
Malcolm
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000674:Amputees / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D001186:Artificial Limbs / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012917:Social Adjustment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors