Spinal Cord Stimulation for Phantom Limb Pain
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this project is to characterize the types of sensations that can be evoked via electrical stimulation of the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Patients will be recruited from a local pain clinic, each with a spinal cord stimulation device implanted, to participate in experiments to explore the ability to modulate and control the modality, intensity, focality, and location of the sensations evoked by stimulation through the spinal cord stimulator leads. Investigators will connect spinal cord stimulator leads to a custom stimulator system and will ask subjects to report the types of sensations felt. Invesigators will also perform detailed psychophysical metrics to examine participants' ability to discriminate sensations.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Spinal Cord Stimulation for Phantom Limb Pain?
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) has shown promise in reducing phantom limb pain, with some studies reporting good to excellent pain relief in most patients. For example, one study noted significant pain reduction in a patient using SCS, with pain scores dropping from 8/10 to 2/10, although some pain returned over time.12345
Is spinal cord stimulation generally safe for humans?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is generally considered safe for humans, with studies showing a low rate of serious complications. In a global study, the most common serious issue was implant site infection, occurring in less than 1% of cases, and the overall rate of device removal due to problems was low.678910
How does spinal cord stimulation differ from other treatments for phantom limb pain?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is unique because it involves implanting a device that delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord, which can help reduce pain by altering nerve activity. Unlike traditional pain medications, SCS directly targets the nervous system and can be effective when other treatments fail.13111213
Research Team
Lee Fisher, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for individuals aged 18-70 with Phantom Limb Syndrome or similar conditions, who are already part of a pain management clinical trial involving an epidural spinal cord stimulator. Participants must understand the consent process and procedures.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Stimulation Trials
Participants undergo psychophysical stimulation trials with an external stimulator connected to the SCS lead to characterize sensory responses.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after stimulation trials
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Spinal cord stimulation system
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Lee Fisher, PhD
Lead Sponsor