Cognitive appraisal and perceived benefits of dysvascular lower limb amputation: a longitudinal study.

This study aimed to: (i) compare the adjustment of individuals who have a positive appraisal of their amputation with those who have a negative appraisal; and (ii) identify the perceived benefits of amputation. Sixteen individuals who had a lower limb amputation (nine men and seven women) completed questionnaires during hospitalization (T1), rehabilitation (T2) and after discharge (T3). A subsample (n=10) also participated in semi-structured interviews. Participants who had a positive appraisal of their amputation showed greater functional independence (T1) and greater body image satisfaction (T3) than those with negative appraisal. From interviews, the perceived benefits identified were less pain, more social contacts, fewer health concerns and fewer demands from family and friends. Positive appraisal of the amputation is experienced by many people, thus requiring more attention in future research.