Introduction: Criticism has often been made regarding the functional outcome of amputations at the level of the knee joint with regard to the prostheses that are fitted.

Aim: To evaluate the quality of life of a group of amputees with regard to their artificial limb following through-knee or Gritti-Stokes amputation.

Method: The Waikato Limb Fitting Centre’s records were used to identify all through knee amputees fitted with a prosthesis since 1972. Patients were sent a previously validated Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ). This consisted of 21 questions graded on a linear analogue scale (0 to100), regarding prosthesis function, mobility, psychosocial experience as well as general wellbeing.

Results: Forty-five amputees were identified as having been fitted with a prosthesis, however 13 were known to be deceased. Of the 24 postal returns (86% response), 19 were able to be included in the analysis. A PEQ score of > 50 was recorded in 68% of patients for prosthesis fit, comfort and appearance, and in 50% of patients for prosthetic noise. Although ability to walk was impaired to some degree in 58%, especially on slippery surfaces in 84%. More than 80% were able to transfer from a car independently. Less than 16% avoided specific activities (PEQ< 50) because of concern regarding a strangers’ reactions, and 90% recorded a positive response by family to their prosthesis (PEQ> 50). Seventy percent recorded a PEQ> 50 for their overall quality of life.

Conclusions: The majority of patients fitted with a through knee prosthesis had good functional and psychosocial outcomes. When a below knee amputation is not possible, amputation at the level of the knee joint offers a satisfactory quality of life.