Functional outcome measures of patients following hemipelvectomy.

BACKGROUND

Major amputations are indicated for curative treatment of some tumors of the pelvis. Previous literature suggests that patients with a hemipelvectomy amputation are more efficient walking with crutches than using a prosthesis.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether modern prosthetic use after hemipelvectomy may be a viable option for patients than in the past.

STUDY DESIGN

Case control trial.

METHODS

We identified five patients who underwent hemipelvectomy amputation and fit with high-level prosthetic components. Patients were evaluated using a timed up and go, 5-m walk, 400-m walk, and stair climb tests to evaluate functional performance with a prosthesis and without. Short Form-36 scores were collected as well. These results were compared to matched controls.

RESULTS

There was a trend for faster locomotion using crutches over wearing a prosthesis in the timed up and go, and 5-m and 400-m walk; no difference was seen in stair climbing. Short Form-36 scores showed decreased physical component score, but equal mental component score compared to the general population.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that in addition to advances in surgical techniques, prosthetic rehabilitation and management are beginning to optimize functional mobility with the prosthesis.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Patients who use a modern prosthesis following hemipelvectomy demonstrated good clinical function with and without their prosthesis. Although health status scores were decreased in the physical component, mental component scores were equal to healthy controls.