Introduction: Amputation is defined as a surgical removal or loss of a limb in part or full due to a trauma (traumatic amputation) or an injury, disease, or infection (nontraumatic amputation). The limb loss may result not only in long-term function and mobility limitations but may have diverse negative emotional and psychological ramifications. The new physical appearance distorts the patient’s self-image and self-esteem, affects their social life and independence. Some of these psychological responses to amputation are transient and can even enhance the rehabilitation process and adjustment to the changed reality. Conversely, some psychological consequences of limb amputation tend to cause more severe psychological conditions, which require psychological and psychiatric assistance. Psychological reactions depend on multiple medical variables (aetiology and level of amputation, comorbidity, prosthetic rehabilitation) and psychosocial factors (the patient’s age, gender, personality style, educational level, employment, support of their family and social environment). Purpose: The thesis aimed to identify the psychosocial responses to amputation and the factors affecting quality of life and problems following amputation. Methods: A literature review of the relevant literary sources was conducted and the results obtained were compared and analysed. Results: In adherence with inclusion criteria, five studies were included into the thesis. The studies addressed the psychological consequences of amputation, including the quality of life, unemployment and mobility, the impact of some demographic variables (age and gender) as well as the nature, reasons and duration of phantom pain. Discussion and conclusion: The influence of amputation on the patient’s social life and their emotional and psychological state is inevitable regardless of amputation level. The patient’s needs and adaptation to the altered circumstances depend on several psychosocial and medical factors. Further research on a larger population is recommended to explore the impact of amputation across various aspects of patients’ life and to assess the efficacy of specific preoperative and postoperative treatment approaches currently applied. The rehabilitation of patients should take into consideration their physical, psychological and emotional dimensions and empower them for active participation in the treatment process.
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