Return-to-duty Rates among US Military Combat-related Amputees in the Global War on Terror: Job Description Matters
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the differences seen between military occupation services (MOS) in terms of amputation patterns, subsequent disabling conditions, and their ability to return to duty. There were 1,221 major extremity amputees identified during the specified time frame, of which 899 had data regarding disabling conditions, ratings, and disposition. All service branches were represented. Personnel from the US Army (USA) Infantry were significantly (p less than 0.0001) more likely to sustain an amputation than other MOS. The USA Infantry, the US Marine Corps Infantry and the USA Armor represented the top three specialties and accounted for more than 57% of all amputees. Approximately 89% of all service members did not return to duty, and the mean combined for all amputees was 76. USA Special Forces (USA SF) operators were significantly more likely to return to duty ( p less than 0.0022) and be found fit for duty (p less than 0.0015) than all other MOS despite having a mean ISS (20) that was no different from those of other service members. No USA SF personnel were found to have posttraumatic stress disorder as a disabling condition.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA614783
Entities
People
- Chad A. Krueger
- Jeffery G. Belisle
- Joseph C Wenke
Organizations
- United States Army Institute of Surgical Research