Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.65241/wh.8.2.7
Quality of life assessment in patients with lower limb amputation: a cross-sectional study
Maja Kosic
; University of Applied Health Sciences, student
Valentina Kriksic
; Institution for Home Healthcare Domnius, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Boris Ilic
; Department of Nursing, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
Sanja Ledinski
; Department of Nursing, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
Stefanija Ozimec Vulinec
; Department of Nursing, University of Applied Health Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
Irena Kovacevic
orcid.org/0000-0001-5673-9515
; Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Background: Lower limb amputation is a major medical
and public health concern, with consequences extending
beyond the physical loss of a limb. Patients face substantial
physical, emotional, and social challenges that significantly
impact their quality of life. This study aimed to assess the
impact of amputation on quality of life and to compare
outcomes between younger and older patients.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at
Dubrava University Hospital, including 30 patients (15
men, 15 women) who underwent lower limb amputation.
The most common comorbidities were peripheral vascular
disease and diabetes mellitus. Participants were divided
into two age groups (18–65 years; ≥66 years). Data were
collected using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire and
the Social Support Scale. Descriptive statistics and the
Mann–Whitney U test were applied.
Results: Older patients reported significantly poorer
quality of life (U = 21.00, p < 0.001), reduced physical
functioning (U = 14.50, p < 0.001), more pronounced
negative emotional symptoms (U = 47.50, p = 0.007), and
lower perceived social support (U = 22.50, p < 0.001). Pain
levels declined over time, and satisfaction with rehabilitation
programs was positive, with no significant differences
between age groups.
Conclusions: Age is a key determinant of quality
of life after amputation. Older patients face multiple
challenges, underscoring the need for an individualized,
multidisciplinary, and holistic rehabilitation approach that
integrates medical, psychological, and social support.
Keywords
Amputation; quality of life; older adults; rehabilitation; social support.
Hrčak ID:
343012
URI
Publication date:
24.12.2025.
Visits: 579 *