Intangible but definite psychological benefits should result from immediate postsurgical prosthetic fitting with ambulation. A hopeful rather than negative approach to surgery is thus accomplished.
Most elective surgery connotes a state of improved physical well being.
The totally destructive nature of an amputation confronts the patient with irreparable psychological disaster in many instances. This is particularly noted among older people, who, looking at their few remaining years, are concerned acutely about helplessness and dependency. The rapid transition from limb loss to function bespeaks hope. This motivation can make the difference between effective rehabilitation and failure.