phantom limb syndrome

phantom limb syndrome

a phenomenon common after amputation of a limb in which sensation or discomfort is experienced in the missing limb. In some people severe pain persists. See also pseudesthesia.

Chronic intense pain localised to the site of an amputated or denervated limb; 60–70% of amputees have a phantom limb sensation; 10–15% have phantom limb syndrome; the pain often reflects the amount of pre-amputation pain, and is often refractory to excision of amputation neuroma, rubbing, electrical stimulation, peripheral nerve or spinal blocks, narcotics, sympathectomy
Treatment Use of a mirror in a box that places the intact limb visually in the same site as the missing extremity; with the use of symmetrical movements, the patient ‘unlearns’ activities that were formerly carried out by the missing limb

phantom limb syndrome

 Chronic intense pain localized to the site of an amputated or denervated limb; 60-70% of amputees have a PL sensation; 10-15% have PLS; the pain often reflects the amount of pre-amputation pain, and is often refractory to excision of amputation neuroma, rubbing, electrical stimulation, peripheral nerve or spinal blocks, narcotics, sympathectomy