Display Settings:

Format

Send to:

Choose Destination
    Anasthesiol Intensivmed Notfallmed Schmerzther. 2009 Mar;44(3):174-80. Epub 2009 Mar 5.

    [Therapy of phantom limb pain].

    [Article in German]

    Abstract

    About 80 % of all extremity amputations suffer from phantom limb pain following the operation. In this context, it is important to differentiate between painful phantom limb sensations, non-painful phantom limb sensations and residual limb pain. The pathophysiology of phantom limb pain is not fully understood. Current research findings ascribe a major pathophysiological role to cortical changes as well as a disturbed body perception. Peripheral and spinal mechanisms appear less relevant in the development of phantom limb pain. An essential part of the therapy is the pharmacological treatment with antidepressants, anticonvulsives and opioids. Another significant aspect of therapy is senso-motory training, important to mention here would be mirror therapy, lateralisation and motor imaging. In case of an elective amputation, an epidural or axiliar plexus catheter should be considered prior to the amputation. The perioperative treatment with ketamine is debated.

    PMID:
    19266417
    [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

      Supplemental Content

      Icon for Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart, New York

      Save items

      loading

      Recent activity

      Your browsing activity is empty.

      Activity recording is turned off.

      Turn recording back on

      See more...
      Write to the Help Desk