[Phantom limb pain: from physiopathology to prevention]

Ann Fr Anesth Reanim. 2009 May;28(5):460-72. doi: 10.1016/j.annfar.2009.03.012. Epub 2009 May 1.
[Article in French]

Abstract

First described in 1545, phantom limb pain is a frequent complication after limb amputation, described by 60 to 85% of amputees. Stump pain, phantom limb sensation and phantom limb pain are often combined. Physiopathology is complex and peripheral, medullar and cortical mechanisms are combined. Pharmacological preventive treatments as well as regional anaesthesia techniques have equivalent results. Such treatments must be investigated more precisely as postoperative rehabilitation of amputees mostly depends on pain relief.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia, Conduction
  • Central Nervous System / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Imagery, Psychotherapy
  • Peripheral Nerves / physiopathology
  • Phantom Limb / drug therapy
  • Phantom Limb / physiopathology*
  • Phantom Limb / prevention & control*
  • Phantom Limb / therapy