A experiência de homens submetidos à amputação: um estudo etnográfico

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the men´s experience undergoing amputation of lower limbs. To achieve this understanding, the theoretical referential of Interpretive Anthropology of Geertz and the ethnographic method were used. Eight men participated in this study, registered in the Reference Center in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of the South of Minas Gerais. The ethical precepts were respected, as the approval of the study by the Ethics Committee under CAAE 26203814.3.0000.5142 and signing the informed consent form by the participants. Data collection occurred from February to November 2014, at participant´s home through semi-structured interviews, participant observation and recorded notes in field journal. From the analysis, a central axis transverse emerged: “the struggle for independence” composed by two perpendicular axes “My body marked as a mark in life” and “Redoing my male identity”. Amputation marks the body and the men´s lives that on the limitations imposed by such a condition are subordinate to their social group. This dependency generates feelings of worthlessness and sadness, contradicting the conceptions of common sense about the man's role in society. The prosthesis emerges as a horizon of possibilities, assuming leading role in the amputation process, since it allows the insertion of man to a new context of experience, giving him a second chance at life. We understand that when men identified with others that also went through the amputation process, they try to remake their identity from the subjective and intersubjective interactions and gradually seek to mobilize for life despite the amputation. We found a plurality of modes in amputation meanings, since this is a unique and singular experience. This experience has a transitions between “to be” and the “to feel” deficient, and it is influenced by the socio-cultural context and personal trajectory, in which the new condition is accepted or rejected. We see the need to change nursing staff attitude regarding the assistance provided to people with amputation. Learning from these people about the amputation experience, contributes to rethink health care, in terms of body and mind inseparability, considering and respecting cultural diversity.