Child Amputee Prosthetics Project-Prosthesis Satisfaction Inventory (CAPP-PSI): Validation of Italian Version in Children with Upper Limb Amputation

Abstract

Background: The Child Amputee Prosthetics Project-Prosthesis Satisfaction Inventory (CAPP-PSI) is a comprehensive instrument designed to measure satisfaction across functionality, aesthetic, and service domains. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and evaluate the psychometric properties of the CAPP-PSI in an Italian pediatric population. Methods: Following international guidelines, the CAPP-PSI was translated and culturally adapted. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha, while test-retest reliability was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Construct validity was measured by analyzing correlations among subscales. Results: A total of 113 children with congenital or acquired upper limb amputation, accompanied by their parents, were recruited from the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital in Rome. The Italian CAPP-PSI demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.913) and strong test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.966). Subscale correlations showed strong relationships between child and parent satisfaction (r = 0.724, p < 0.01) and parent satisfaction with service (r = 0.612, p < 0.01), while moderate correlations were observed between child satisfaction and service (r = 0.434, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The Italian version of the CAPP-PSI is a reliable and valid tool for assessing prosthetic satisfaction in pediatric populations. It provides valuable insights for clinicians and researchers, supporting patient-centered care and targeted improvements in prosthetic design and services. Future studies should explore longitudinal outcomes and the role of psychosocial factors in prosthetic acceptance.

Keywords: amputation; children; hand deficiencies; healthcare service; prosthetics; satisfaction.