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Published on: August 2, 2016
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Vibrotactile Stimulation in Lower Extremity Amputation Patients Using a Noninvasive Vibration Device: A Pilot Study
Floris V Raasveld1,2,3, Jenna Daddario1, Wen-Chih Liu2,4
1From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|May 20, 2025
Summary
A new vibrotactile sensory feedback device shows promise for lower extremity (LE) amputation patients undergoing targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR). The device may reduce phantom limb pain (PLP) and improve gait, enhancing patient satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Prosthetics
Background:
- Restoring sensory and proprioceptive feedback is a significant challenge for lower extremity (LE) amputation patients despite advances in prosthetics.
- Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) surgery improves limb control but does not fully address sensory feedback deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel vibrotactile sensory feedback device for LE amputation patients with TMR.
- To assess the device's impact on phantom limb pain (PLP), gait, and overall patient well-being.
Main Methods:
- Four male LE amputation patients (age 25-68) who underwent primary TMR participated.
- A vibrotactile device with pressure sensors and a vibrating actuator was used for 31 days during prosthesis use.
- Assessments included pain, function, mental health, satisfaction, and gait analysis.
Main Results:
- Three out of four patients reported reduced PLP, improved gait, and higher device satisfaction.
- One patient experienced decreased anxiety and depression.
- A highly active young patient showed less improvement, suggesting individual variability.
Conclusions:
- The vibrotactile feedback device shows potential for improving PLP and gait in TMR LE amputation patients.
- Patient activity levels and psychological factors may influence device efficacy.
- Future research should explore personalized interventions and long-term outcomes.
