Prosthetic Rehabilitation After Hip Disarticulation or Hemipelvectomy

OBJECTIVE: Prosthetic rehabilitation after pelvic-level amputation (hemipelvectomy/hip disarticulation) is difficult, and because of this, many patients are never fit with a prosthetic limb. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the characteristics of successful prosthetic users and to determine what factors are associated with successful prosthetic fitting and use. DESIGN: The authors identified 43 patients who underwent hip disarticulation/hemipelvectomy between 2000 and 2010 and were candidates for prosthetic fitting at the authors' institution. The medical records of these patients were then reviewed for pertinent demographic and medical characteristics to identify the profile of successful prosthetic users. RESULTS: Of 43 patients, 18 (43%) successfully used a prosthetic limb. The only preoperative factor associated with unsuccessful prosthetic fitting was coronary artery disease. Specifically, age, body mass index, other medical comorbidities, and demographic characteristics were not associated with successful or unsuccessful prosthetic fitting. Successful users wore their prosthesis an average of 5.8 hrs/day, and most ambulated with one or both hands free. CONCLUSIONS: Successful prosthetic rehabilitation after hemipelvectomy and hip disarticulation is possible. Increased body mass index, advanced age, depression, and other comorbidities should not discourage prosthetic rehabilitation. Most patients that undergo prosthetic rehabilitation enjoy long periods of survival and wear their prosthesis for most of the day.