Phantom Limb Development in Congenitally Upper Limb-Deficient Individuals

Characterising phantom limb phenomena in upper limb amputees.

A systematic descriptive survey was carried out on a clinic population with acquired upper limb amputation in which clear distinctions were made between phantom experiences, pre-amputation pain and stump pain. It was found that of 76 participants 96% reported phantom experiences and 84% were currently experiencing phantom limb phenomena (PLP). Sixty-nine percent (69%) of those currently experie...

Perceptions of the risks and benefits of upper limb transplantation among individuals with upper limb amputations.

BACKGROUND Upper limb transplantation is a life-enhancing rather than life-saving procedure. Little research has investigated how individuals with upper limb amputations perceive the benefits and risks of this complex procedure. To address this knowledge gap, the authors conducted qualitative research with individuals with upper limb amputations to understand their perspectives. METHODS Twent...

Prevalence and characteristics of phantom limb pain and residual limb pain in the long term following upper limb amputation

Objectives: This study aims to describe the prevalence and characteristics of phantom limb pain and residual limb pain following upper limb amputation. Methods: One-hundred and forty-one participants (139 males; mean age 74.8 years; mean time since amputation 50.1 years) completed a self-report questionnaire assessing residual and phantom limb pain experience. Results: Prevalence of phantom lim...

Phantom limb pain.

Phantom pain is experienced by 60% to 80% of patients following limb amputation but is only severe in about 5% to 10% of cases. The mechanisms underlying pain in amputees are not fully understood, but factors in both the peripheral and central nervous system play a role. Treatment of phantom pain is not successful; a recent study on prevention of phantom pain showed negative results. The future...

The Phantom Limb