Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 15, 2026
Real-time Video Projection in an MRI for Characterization of Neural Correlates Associated with Mirror Therapy for Phantom Limb Pain
Published on: April 20, 2019
Immediate Postoperative Virtual Reality Therapy for Phantom Limb Pain in Multiextremity Amputees: A Report of 3 Cases
James Tyler Frix1, Ryan P Serbin1, Madeline G Rieker1
1Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, Charlotte, North Carolina.
Cases:
Three consecutive patients (16F, 52F, and 58F) underwent multiextremity amputation with targeted muscle reinnervation and regenerative peripheral nerve interface. Virtual reality (VR) therapy began postoperatively and continued for 6 to 10 weeks as needed, with assessment at 8 months. The patients experienced negligible-to-mild adverse effects (mean Simulator Sickness Questionnaire: 12.5) and reported good usability (System Usability Score: 62.5). Phantom limb pain decreased from 9.5/10 to 2.3/10 during VR (p = 0.002).
Conclusion:
These cases demonstrate that VR can be safely and effectively implemented postoperatively following multiextremity amputation, suggesting potential for expanded use even in similarly complex cases.
