Evaluation of the impact of nerve transfers for painful neuromas at the residual limb after major amputation of the lower extremities

Status:

ongoing

Aims:

The aim of this research is to determine if a selective nerve transfer of painful neuromas leads to a change in amputation-related pain qualities of patients with lower limb amputation, i.e. to "TARGETED MUSCLE BENEFIT". Furthermore, the possible influence of this intervention on quality of life, occupational/social participation and gait symmetry will be investigated. The current study situation shows an explorative character for the value of surgical intervention in the treatment of postamputation pain.

Activities/Methods:

Work Package (WP) 1, evaluates the qualitative and quantitative analysis of post-amputation pain by using standardized pain questionnaires The pain and concomitant drug therapies will be recorded during the entire project period.

Within WP 2 the "Digital pain diary for outpatient monitoring" is implemented together with a subcontractor (RoutineHealth, Düsseldorf). The digital pain diary records primary and secondary measurement parameters (pain, pain quality, medication, activity, work activity, prosthesis wearing time, wearing comfort) on a daily basis needing less than five minutes of the amputees´ attention.

The data for WP 3 "Functional Outcome & Longitudinal Analysis of Quality of Life" are collected exclusively in Duisburg. Here we draw on the experience of the Clinic for Rehabilitation, Conservative and Technical Orthopedics for the assessment and evaluation of gait-specific parameters which will be analyzed pre and postinterventional.

Within the framework of WP 3 "Functional Outcome & Longitudinal Analysis of Quality of Life", Hannover Medical School is involved in the evaluation and interpretation of the data collected in Duisburg.

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