Results from the Mobility Analysis of Amputees (MAAT 1) study suggest that there is a significant direct correlation between mobility to quality of life and patient satisfaction for people living with lower limb loss.
The study, published recently in Prosthetics & Orthotics International, is the first in a series of studies Hanger Inc is conducting in support of the development of evidence-based care for amputees, notes a media release from Hanger Inc.
The results of the MAAT I study demonstrated a statistically significant direct correlation of higher mobility with higher quality of life (p<0.001, r=0.511) and patient satisfaction (p<0.001, r=0.475) in a sample size of 509 patients living with lower limb loss. Specifically, mobility accounts for approximately one quarter of the variance associated with quality of life and general satisfaction (26.1% and 22.6%, respectively), the release explains.
As a modifiable factor with significant impact on both quality of life and satisfaction, prosthetic mobility represents a substantial factor that should be addressed by the rehabilitation team, the researchers suggest in the study.
“Functional mobility is compromised in individuals dealing with lower limb loss, and this study provides strong evidence that maximizing mobility should be considered a primary goal in providing holistic patient care,” states James Campbell, PhD, CO, FAAOP, chief clinical officer, Hanger Clinic, in the release.
The researchers began the study by performing a retrospective review of outcomes data collected within multiple clinics. The Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility and Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire was included in the study. The analysis included 509 current prosthetic users, individuals age 18 or older, with varying amputation levels, including both unilateral and bilateral lower limb amputation.
“We are very proud of the publication of these important research findings, as this is another example of Hanger Clinic leading the orthotics and prosthetics profession in evidence-based outcomes,” states Hanger President & CEO Vinit Asar, in the release. “We are in a position to collect and publish previously unknown insights that can aid in the protection and improvement of patients’ access to proper care.”
[Source(s): Hanger Inc, PR Newswire]
