Rehabilitation in limb deficiency. 4. Limb amputation.

This self-directed learning module highlights new advances in this topic area. It is part of the chapter on rehabilitation in limb deficiency in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. This article reviews the phases of amputation rehabilitation from preoperative stages to community reintegration and long-term follow-up. The various indications for artificial limb components for the upper and lower limb amputee and the expected functional levels based on level of amputation are discussed. New concepts of critical pathways are also introduced as guidelines in optimizing the rehabilitation of the amputee. The reader is directed to other relevant literature as well, in an attempt to enhance knowledge in this area of rehabilitation.