Prevalence of residual limb pain and neuromas after upper extremity amputation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Residual limb pain (RLP) and symptomatic neuromas are common complications of upper extremity amputation. There is disagreement in the literature about their true prevalence. This systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of RLP and symptomatic neuroma after upper extremity amputation identified relevant studies published between 2000 and 2022 in PubMed, Cochrane and Embase. Random-effects meta-analyses of proportions were performed to determine the prevalence of RLP and symptomatic neuromas. Subgroups were identified and analysed. For RLP, the pooled prevalence was 58% (95% CI: 46 to 68). For symptomatic neuromas, the pooled prevalence was 22% (95% CI: 11 to 40). Residual limb pain was reported less frequently in Europe than in the United States. Knowledge and awareness are important for appropriate treatment and prevention.