Prosthetic fitting and associated factors among lower limb amputees at Mulago Hospital

Abstract

Background: Lower limb amputations are a significant global health challenge, with Uganda experiencing a notable burden. Despite the essential role of prosthetic fitting in rehabilitation, disparities in access and prosthetic fitting persist, particularly in low-income countries. Limited research exists on the rate and associated factors of prosthetic fitting among lower limb amputee patients, especially in Uganda. Addressing this gap is crucial for enhancing care and outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the proportion of prosthetic fittings and associated factors among lower limb amputees at Mulago Hospital, providing insights into improving amputee care in Uganda. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 58 lower limb amputees who had completed at least 12 months of prosthetic fitting at Mulago Hospital. Convenience sampling was used to enroll the 58 participants. Prosthetic fitting was assessed using the TAPES scale, with a score of ≥60% considered successful. Data on associated factors were collected using a questionnaire. Data analysis was done using STATA version 15. Bivariate and Multivariate modified Poisson regression was used to identify the associated factors with the level of significance set at 0.05 Results: The study found that the rate of successful prosthetic fitting among lower limb amputees at Mulago Hospital was 34.5%. Factors such as education level and the average number of hours a prosthetic was worn daily were significantly associated with successful prosthetic fitting (p=0.038 and p=0.006, respectively). However, variables such as sex, residual limb pain, phantom limb pain, comorbidities, and time to rehabilitation were not significantly associated with prosthetic fitting. Conclusion: The study revealed a low rate of successful prosthetic fitting among lower limb amputees at Mulago Hospital, consistent with findings from other settings. Factors such as higher education levels and longer daily prosthetic use were significantly associated with prosthetic fitting, highlighting the importance of addressing clinical and socio demographic factors in prosthetic rehabilitation programs.