Review of function in bilateral lower limb amputees.

A review of the results of bilateral lower limb amputation in 53 individuals indicates that the physician can now be more optimistic when considering the use of prostheses and the value of rehabilitation in patients with bilateral amputation. Many patients continue to use a prosthesis after the second amputation, irrespective of the site of the first. Associated disease and lack of motivation delay successful rehabilitation. About half of the amputees used a wheelchair as a principal aid to mobility. A number of patients found that amputation of the second limb necessitated a change of accommodation, reduced their degree of independence and decreased their social activities. Individuals with bilateral lower limb amputation prefer to retain the knee joint, even if they already have unilateral above-knee amputation.