Spinal cord stimulation for the treatment of phantom limb pain: A case report and literature review.
10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2025.240629
- Author:
Lanxing WU
1
,
2
;
Rong HU
1
;
Honglian ZHANG
1
,
3
;
Yuncheng NI
1
;
Jianping ZHANG
1
;
Gangwen GUO
1
;
Yonghui LI
4
Author Information
1. Department of Pain, Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha
2. 1533784627@qq.com.
3. 5427092@qq.com.
4. Department of Pain Management, Yueyang People's Hospital, Yueyang 414000, China.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Visual Analogue Scale;
depression;
percutaneous electrode;
phantom limb pain;
spinal cord stimulation
- MeSH:
Humans;
Phantom Limb/therapy*;
Male;
Adult;
Spinal Cord Stimulation/methods*;
Electrodes, Implanted;
Amputation, Surgical/adverse effects*
- From:
Journal of Central South University(Medical Sciences)
2025;50(2):313-318
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a form of neuropathic pain occurring after limb amputation, and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear, posing significant challenges for clinical management. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS), a neuromodulation technique, has shown potential in relieving chronic pain, though its long-term efficacy and safety in treating PLP require further validation. This report presents a case of a 42-year-old male experiencing persistent radiating, lightning-like pain [Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score 8-9], following right upper limb amputation. Preoperative imaging revealed signal loss in the right nerve roots at C6-T1. A percutaneous electrode was implanted surgically to achieve full coverage of the painful region. Five days postoperatively, the VAS score dropped to 2-3, and after 1 year of follow-up, the patient continued to experience significant pain relief (VAS 1-2), with complete resolution of depressive symptoms and cessation of analgesic medication. Existing studies suggest that the long-term outcomes of SCS may fluctuate, and attention should be paid to potential complications such as infection and electrode displacement.
