@article{ref1,
title="Multiple traumatic limb loss: A comparison of Vietnam veterans to OIF/OEF servicemembers",
journal="Journal of rehabilitation research and development",
year="2010",
author="Dougherty, Paul J. and McFarland, Lynne V. and Smith, Douglas G. and Esquenazi, Alberto and Blake, Donna Jo and Reiber, Gayle E.",
volume="47",
number="4",
pages="333-348",
abstract="Multiple-limb loss due to war-theater injuries results in a unique group of servicemembers requiring intensive rehabilitation and diverse prosthetic devices. This article compares the Vietnam and the Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) groups with war-theater-associated multiple-limb loss to document significant changes in health status, prosthetic-device use, and long-term prognosis. During 2007 and 2008, a national survey queried 73 Vietnam veterans and 61 OIF/OEF servicemembers sustaining multiple-limb loss. Average years since limb loss are 39 for Vietnam veterans and 3 for OIF/OEF servicemembers. Self-rated health status was excellent or very good in 38.9% of the Vietnam group and 60.7% of the OIF/OEF group (p = 0.01). More of the OIF/OEF group than the Vietnam group reported performing high-impact aerobic activities, 18% versus 3% (p = 0.005). The OIF/OEF group currently uses more diverse prosthetic-device types than the Vietnam group. Based on Vietnam veterans' 39-year experience, the long-term prognosis for OIF/OEF servicemembers with multiple-limb loss is an active, fulfilling life. The healthcare team caring for these patients should carefully address proper prosthesis fit and maintenance of good health and function.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0748-7711",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}