Project description
The Center for Bionics and Pain Research (CBPR) is searching for research participants to a clinical study for surgical treatments of post amputation pain. The study includes a comparison of three different surgical procedures, and it was approved by the Ethics Review Authority. We are looking for women and men over the age of 18 who experience pain related to an amputation in the upper or lower extremity.

What is the project and why would you like me to participate? 
Major amputation is a life-changing event. Beyond the loss of motor function, the majority of individuals with amputations experience some type of post amputation pain which can continue for weeks, months, years, or throughout the individual’s life. The most commonly reported pains can be classified as neuroma pain, stump pain, and phantom limb pain (PLP), all of which have been shown to infringe on the person’s daily life and negatively influence their social activities, work, and sleep. The overall aim of this project is to investigate three different surgical techniques used as treatments for post amputation pain. All three surgical options are available in clinical practice. By participating in this study, you will not only contribute to more knowledge in the field, but potentially experience reduction in your post amputation pain. You will be randomised to one of the three surgical techniques, and you will not know which treatment you received up to 12 months post-surgery.

How is the study performed?
The study requires you to participate in 12 visits, including 4 visits prior to surgery, 1 visit for surgery, and thereafter 7 follow-up visits spread out over a 5-year period post-surgery. All visits will primarily take place at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Mölndal, and some visits will be performed via phone or video call.
At each visit, you will be asked to participate in different tasks such as answering questionnaires, interviews related to the treatment, undergo physical examinations, and participate in non-invasive brain imaging assessments (electroencephalography, EEG). The surgical procedure will take place in one visit.