Associated diagnoses which complicate rehabilitation of the patient with bilateral lower extremity amputations.

Cardiopulmonary problems were the most common limiting factor in the rehabilitation of 42 bilateral lower limb amputees. Diabetes mellitus and local stump problems, most common in below knee amputees, delayed rehabilitation but, subsequently, obtained the highest goals. Thirty of the 42 amputees finally were self sufficient; the average time required was 30 weeks to maximum benefit.