Abstract

GABARRA, Letícia Macedo  and  CREPALDI, Maria Aparecida. The psychological aspects of amputation surgery. Aletheia [online]. 2009, n.30, pp. 59-72. ISSN 1413-0394.

The Psychologist’s work with amputees is increasing due to Public Health issues such as an increase in life expectancy and co-morbidities. The objective of this article is to present a review of the available literature related to emotional aspects associated with amputee patients. Firstly the types of limb amputations were described indicating their causes, incidence and the extent of surgery. Secondly the implications of the doctor/patient relationship on the decision to undergo surgery are considered. Finally an attempt is made to relate and discuss the emotional aspects of amputation with reference to research and studies in this area. In consideration of the fact that emotional aspects are given special attention in amputation cases, it is clear that additional psychological research is needs to provide a better basis for interventions and actions, adapting them to actual demands in this field.

Keywords : Limb amputation; Psychological aspects; Psycological health.

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