Unveiling the phantom: What neuroimaging has taught us about phantom limb pain

Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a complicated condition with diverse clinical challenges. It consists of pain perception of a previously amputated limb. The exact pain mechanism is disputed and includes mechanisms involving cerebral, peripheral, and spinal origins. Such controversy limits researchers’ an...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Brain and behavior 2022-03, Vol.12 (3), p.e2509-n/a
Main Authors: Browne, Jonathan D., Fraiser, Ryan, Cai, Yi, Leung, Dillon, Leung, Albert, Vaninetti, Michael
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Amputation
Amputees
Brain Mapping
Diffusion Tensor Imaging
DTI
EEG
Electroencephalography
fMRI
Humans
Magnetic resonance imaging
MEG
Nervous system
Neuroimaging
Pain
Phantom limb
Phantom Limb - diagnostic imaging
Phantom Limb - therapy
phantom limb pain
Review
Signal processing
Spinal cord
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Summary:Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a complicated condition with diverse clinical challenges. It consists of pain perception of a previously amputated limb. The exact pain mechanism is disputed and includes mechanisms involving cerebral, peripheral, and spinal origins. Such controversy limits researchers’ and clinicians’ ability to develop consistent therapeutics or management. Neuroimaging is an essential tool that can address this problem. This review explores diffusion tensor imaging, functional magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography, and magnetoencephalography in the context of PLP. These imaging modalities have distinct mechanisms, implications, applications, and limitations. Diffusion tensor imaging can outline structural changes and has surgical applications. Functional magnetic resonance imaging captures functional changes with spatial resolution and has therapeutic applications. Electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography can identify functional changes with a strong temporal resolution. Each imaging technique provides a unique perspective and they can be used in concert to reveal the true nature of PLP. Furthermore, researchers can utilize the respective strengths of each neuroimaging technique to support the development of innovative therapies. PLP exemplifies how neuroimaging and clinical management are intricately connected. This review can assist clinicians and researchers seeking a foundation for applications and understanding the limitations of neuroimaging techniques in the context of PLP.
ISSN:2162-3279
2162-3279
DOI:10.1002/brb3.2509