Factors that influence rehabilitation of children who undergo amputation for bone or soft tissue sarcomas: the surgeon's viewpoint.

The surgeon, by his manner and attitude, sets the tone for the rehabilitation program of the cancer patient who has undergone amputation. The initial encounter with the patient and his family tends to shape a relationship that persists throughout the treatment and rehabilitation program. In our practice, the surgeon remains the patient's physician before, during, and after the amputation. If the surgeon is also willing to direct the rehabilitation program, the continuity thus obtained is enormously helpful.