Phantom pain

The natural course of postamputation phenomena in cancer patients, including phantom pain, is poorly understood. Phantom pain may be disabling in a significant minority of patients undergoing amputation for malignancy. Due to advances in pain research, the pathophysiology of phantom pain is better understood. Both peripheral and central nervous system mechanisms play a role. Therapeutic options for persistent phantom pain are currently limited. Research into pharmacologic prevention strategies may yield more effective methods. A multidisciplinary care approach is designed to facilitate physical and psychological recovery after loss of a body part. Medical decision trees pertaining to cancer amputation are presented. Oncologists should be familiar with what is known about phantom pain in order to counsel patients and make appropriate referrals for comprehensive care.