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Published on: October 28, 2020
Using the intact hand for objective assessment of phantom hand-perception
Masahiko Sumitani1, Arito Yozu, Toshiya Tomioka
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Relief Center, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan. sumitanim-ane@h.u-tokyo.ac.jp
European Journal of Pain (London, England)
|May 30, 2009
Summary
Phantom limb (PL) experiences after amputation can now be objectively assessed. By evaluating intact hand size perception, researchers can indirectly gauge phantom limb size, aiding in understanding neural plasticity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Psychology
Background:
- Phantom limb (PL) is a common post-amputation phenomenon.
- PL experiences are linked to central nervous system (CNS) neural plasticity.
- Assessing PL has relied on subjective patient reports, lacking objective measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an objective method for evaluating phantom limb (PL) experiences.
- To indirectly assess PL size perception without subjective patient descriptions.
- To provide a tool for investigating the neural mechanisms of PL.
Main Methods:
- Digital photography and image manipulation were used to assess hand size perception.
- Subjects (normals, non-PL patients, and PL patients) identified images matching their hand size.
- Intact hand size perception was correlated with phantom limb size perception in amputees.
Main Results:
- Hand size perception was homologous between affected and unaffected hands in non-PL patients.
- Intact hand size perception linearly correlated with phantom limb size perception in PL patients.
- This method objectively indicates if the phantom limb is perceived as shrunken, normal, or enlarged.
Conclusions:
- Patient evaluation of intact hand size indirectly and accurately reflects phantom limb perception.
- This novel objective method can aid in understanding the neural basis of phantom limb phenomena.
- The technique offers a more reliable assessment tool for PL research.
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