Attitude, perception, acceptance, and life after amputation as seen in Lagos University Teaching Hospital

Background: Amputation is a surgical ablation of a limb as a form of treatment. A survey of the attitude, perception, and acceptance of amputation was carried out to determine the level of knowledge and understanding of the indications and benefits, among adult patients and relatives at the Orthopaedic and Trauma Clinic of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. This study also involved survey among amputees to determine prospects of life after amputation. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in which structured questionnaires were administered to adult patients and relatives at the Orthopaedic and Trauma Clinic of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital from May 2017 to November 2018. A second questionnaire was administered to few amputees and the data obtained from the study was analyzed using SPSS. Results: A total of 332 respondents were interviewed. The mean age was 43 ± 19.4 years. There were 194 (58.4%) males and 138 (41.6%) females. Two hundred ninety-nine respondents (90%) had knowledge of amputation as a treatment method whereas 21 (6.3%) had no knowledge. Two hundred twenty-six respondents (68%) were aware of the importance of prosthesis. Seven (17.9%) were able to return to their initial work whereas eight (20.5%) were able to secure work other than their initial work. Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had good knowledge of amputation as well as the indications for amputation. Few of the amputees interviewed were able to return to their preamputation work; therefore, there is the need for improved social support, better rehabilitation, and occupational therapy in developing countries.