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NCT06780943
Lower limb amputation causes segmental loss that alters locomotor organization. The human body, designed to function in a multisegmental manner, must adapt to this new configuration where segments are missing, depending on the level of amputation. These adaptations are directly linked to the biomechanical, physiological and proprioceptive alterations caused by the loss of the amputated segments. Without mechanoreceptive afferents essential for regulating locomotion, the sensory system uses alternative information to maintain efficient locomotor function. The prosthesis partially compensates, but remains limited on the biomechanical and proprioceptive levels. Current prosthetic technologies, inspired by biomimicry, aim to imitate evolutionary solutions to restore walking, although current algorithms do not allow real-time modulation. This research aims to characterize post-amputation locomotor adaptations through biomechanical, physiological and proprioceptive exploration to develop a "locomotor characterization" model. The study authors hypothesize that the post-amputation alterations are exacerbated in contexts of continuous and discontinuous constraints (e.g., ascent/descent and destabilization), and that the addition of a prosthesis, although inspired by biomimicry, only restores partial compensation of locomotor functions.
NCT06452186
The objective of this proposal is to investigate the effects of training to use direct electromyographic (dEMG) control of a powered prosthetic ankle on transtibial amputees'. The aimed questions to answer: 1. whether dEMG control will improve balance and postural stability of amputees, 2. whether dEMG control will lead to more natural neuromuscular control and coordination, 3) whether dEMG control will reduce cognitive processes. Participants will go through PT guided training on using dEMG controlled prosthetic ankles and are evaluated for their capability on functional tasks. The results will be compared with a comparison group, which goes through the same training but with their everyday passive prostheses on balance capability, neuromuscular coordination, and cognitive load during locomotion.
NCT07075042
Different ways of controlling an upper-limb prosthesis can affect how easy it is to use and how helpful it is in everyday activities. One common method, called direct control, uses signals from two muscles and can make switching between movements difficult. Another clinically available option, called pattern recognition control, uses signals from several muscles to better understand the user's intended movement and may feel more natural to use. This study compares these two control methods to see how they affect function for adults with below-the-elbow limb loss.
NCT06071715
When a limb is severed, pain perceived in the part of the body that no longer exists often develops and is called "phantom limb" pain. Unfortunately, phantom pain goes away in only 16% of afflicted individuals, and there is currently no reliable definitive treatment. The exact reason that phantom limb pain occurs is unclear, but when a nerve is cut-as happens with an amputation-changes occur in the brain and spinal cord that actually increase with worsening phantom pain. These abnormal changes may often be corrected by putting local anesthetic-called a "nerve block"-on the injured nerve, effectively keeping any "bad signals" from reaching the brain with a simultaneous resolution of the phantom limb pain. However, when the nerve block resolves after a few hours, the phantom pain returns. But, this demonstrates that the brain abnormalities-and phantom pain-that occur with an amputation are not necessarily fixed, and may be dependent upon the "bad" signals being sent from the injured nerve(s), suggesting that a very long peripheral nerve block-lasting many months rather than hours-may permanently reverse the abnormal changes in the brain, and provide definitive relief from phantom pain. A prolonged nerve block lasting a few months may be provided by freezing the nerve using a process called "cryoneurolysis". The ultimate objective of the proposed research study is to determine if cryoanalgesia is an effective treatment for intractable post-amputation phantom limb pain. The proposed pilot study will include subjects with an existing above-knee amputation who experience intractable daily phantom limb pain. A single ultrasound-guided treatment of cryoneurolysis (or sham block-determined randomly like a flip of a coin) will be applied to the major nerves of the thigh. Although not required, each subject may return 4-6 months later for the alternative treatment (if the first treatment is sham, then the second treatment would be cryoneurolysis) so that all participants have the option of receiving the active treatment. Subjects will be followed for a total of 12 months with data collected by telephone.
NCT06956508
This prospective study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic Targeted Brain Rehabilitation (TBR) in preventing or reducing Phantom Limb Pain (PLP).
NCT06556082
Amputee football (AF) is a disability-specific football in which amputees can participate. This study aims to determine the effect of PNF-based upper extremity strengthening exercises combined with core stabilization exercises on physical fitness parameters in amputee football players. In the study, amputee soccer players will be randomly divided into two groups training and control groups. In addition to the standard training programs in the off-season, the amputee athletes in the training group will receive PNF-based upper extremity strengthening training combined with core stabilization training by the same physiotherapist 3 days a week for 8 weeks. The amputee football players in the control group will be given upper extremity strengthening training with free weights in addition to core stabilization training 3 days a week for 8 weeks. The physical and demographic characteristics of the cases who signed the consent form will be recorded. Initial evaluations will be made before the start of the exercise training program and secondary evaluations will be made at the end of 8 weeks. Detailed information about the participants will be obtained with the Descriptive Characteristics Information Form. Single Leg Balance Test, Berg Balance Scale and Activity Specific Balance Confidence Scale will be used to obtain information about postural control and balance strategies of the participants. Pressure Feedback Unit will be used to measure the stabilization capacity of deep spinal muscles. Trunk muscle endurance tests developed by McGill will be used to assess the level of core stability. Isokinetic muscle strength of the upper extremity muscles will be measured with the ISOMED 2000 (2017-Germany) device. Hand grip strength will be measured with Jamar Hand Dynanometer. Closed Kinetic Ring Upper Extremity Test will be used to measure the strength, anaerobic power, and closed kinetic chain stability of the upper extremity. The Distance Triple Hop Test will be used to assess the strength, speed, balance, and control ability of a lower extremity with special emphasis on the distance traveled by the lower extremity. Sprint Test will be used to measure the running performance of amputee soccer players. The data will then be analyzed and interpreted with appropriate statistical methods.
NCT06636136
Purpose: Aim 1: Quantify soft tissue complications and infections of service members with transtibial amputations treated with OPRA OI and compare them to transfemoral OI service members. Aim 2: Compare the validated domains, such as functional, quality of life and pain scores, from the preoperative baseline to follow-up visits to determine if persons with transtibial amputations treated with OPRA osseointegrated prostheses demonstrate statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements. Aim 3: Compare physical performance measures preoperatively to follow-up visits for persons with transtibial amputations treated with OPRA osseointegrated prostheses to quantify statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements. Aim 4: Quantify the biomechanical loading and bone quality changes that are directly associated with patient reported outcomes for persons with transtibial amputations treated with OPRA osseointegration. Aim 5: Compare outcome measures between persons with traditional socket prostheses (patients as self-controls) and OPRA OI devices as well as a comparison between persons with transtibial OI and transfemoral OI. Subject Population: Male and female military health care beneficiaries age 22 to 65 years old presenting with a Transtibial limb loss. Study Design: This is a 4-year, prospective cohort FDA pivotal study involving off-label use of the OPRA OI implant in persons with transtibial amputation. Procedures: SURGICAL PROCEDURES: Surgery Stage I: The distal part of the tibia is exposed, preferably using existing incisions, to produce an appropriate fasciocutaneous flap. By the use of fluoroscopy and guiding devices the correct position of the fixture in the medullary canal is found. The canal is reamed step by step to a proper diameter to facilitate insertion of the implant. If the bone quality is poor, as determined by the operating surgeon, autologous bone graft from the iliac crest and/or the medullary canal is used. The fixture is then implanted into the intramedullary canal. Careful surgical technique is essential not to damage the tissue and to achieve osseointegration. A central screw, healing cylinder, and healing bolt are inserted. A myodesis is performed, and the wound is closed using suture. The sutures are removed 2-3 weeks postoperatively. When the skin is completely healed the Patient's conventional socket prosthesis could, in some instances, be used. Surgery Stage II (3-5 months after Stage I): The tibia is exposed via the incision from the Stage I-Surgery. The healing cylinder is removed and the tissues are trimmed in a way that the distal end of the bone protrudes a few millimeters. The skin will be attached directly to it. The endosteal canal is reamed to facilitate placement of the abutment. The skin in the abutment area is then trimmed to a diameter equal to the protruding end of the tibia. This is done to remove the subcutaneous fat and facilitate healing of the dermal layer to the distal end of the bone. The subcutaneous tissue is affixed to the periosteum using absorbable suture to prevent skin movement. A 8mm punch biopsy tool is used to create a circular hole in the skin precisely over the residual tibial canal. The remaining portion of the fasciocutaneous flap is sutured into position. A bolster dressing is placed and routine postoperative wound care is performed by daily dressing changes. Sutures are removed 2-3 weeks postoperatively. CLINICAL PROCEDURES A pre-study visit will be conducted up to 6 months prior to Surgery Stage I. Postoperative visits will occur 2-3 weeks after each surgery. Additional follow-up visits will occur 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months post-Surgery Stage II. It is standard of care to follow patients postoperatively from time to time to ensure the wound(s) is /are healing, surveil for complications, and ensure rehabilitation is progressing. That said, the sole reason for engaging in the Clinical Follow-Up Procedures is for the purpose of conducting research under this particular protocol. Additional visits may occur including x-rays at the discretion of the clinical investigator in order to monitor the participants medical status/bone healing. RESEARCH PROCEDURES Timepoints: Baseline, Post-Op Stage II, 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, 36 months, 48 months, and 60 months The patients will be assessed before and after the surgery regularly. Both performance and safety data will be recorded on specially designed electronic Case Report Forms (eCRFs). Clinical and radiological assessments are performed preoperatively (in connection with the surgical procedures.
NCT06616402
The aim of the present study is to verify the functionalitỳ, the degree of safety and the reliability of devices composed of an intelligent socket that allows the detection of biosignals and provides vibrotactile feedback and a prosthesis with active knee and ankle joints and a sensorised foot, for people with trans-femoral or trans-tibial amputation, which allows the optimisation of the gait cycle by providing active assistance at the knee and ankle joints according to the specific movement made by the user. The prototype devices are innovative in that they make it possible to optimise the benefits generated by the presence of actuated joints by exploiting the biosignals detected to ensure optimal functionalitỳ in the performance of activities̀ of daily living.
NCT07443553
Postamputation pain is a complex condition that includes phantom limb pain (PLP), stump pain and residual limb pain (RLP), the latter of which may be referred from joints, the spine and inflamed bursa and tendons. PLP may have peripheral, spinal and central etiologies. The evidence of peripheral mechanisms includes the relief of both PLP and RLP during local anesthetic (LA) infusions, the relief of PLP and RLP with sympathetic blocks and neuroma injections, and the development of phantom radicular pain in amputees with a herniated disc. Neurolysis and defunctionalization are long-lasting treatments for pain when LA blocks provide temporary benefit, being most commonly used for cancer pain (e.g., celiac plexus neurolysis). Neurolysis has also been used to treat PAP, with uncontrolled studies showing benefit for both RLP and PLP. However, there are no controlled studies demonstrating efficacy. In this small study, we will evaluate the effectiveness of alcohol neurolysis of lower extremity neuromas (femoral or saphenous; sciatic or common peroneal and/or tibial; obturator and/ or lateral femoral cutaneous when pain is in those distributions) in individuals with RLP and PLP. For individuals with upper extremity amputation in whom non-selective neurolysis may affect the ability to use certain prosthetics that depend on functioning nerve and muscle signals, high-concentration capsaicin will be injected in an observational arm. The investigators will also examine factors associated with treatment outcome in a subset of patients (e.g., functional MRI, quantitative sensory testing).
NCT03409133
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of providing sensation of the missing limb to individuals with lower limb loss, including above and below knee amputees. The approach involves delivering small electrical currents directly to remaining nerves via implanted stimulating electrodes. These small electrical currents cause the nerves to generate signals that are then transferred to your brain similar to how information about the foot and lower limb used to be transferred to your brain prior to the amputation. Individuals also have the option to have recording electrodes implanted within muscles of the lower limb(s) in an attempt to develop a motor controller that would enable the user to have intuitive control of a robotic prosthetic leg.
NCT02994160
Our goal is to temporarily implant the following groups for 540 +/- 30 days: 1. Forearm FAST electrodes 1. Five human partial hand amputees (amputated at the level of the hand) with 2 FAST electrodes in the ulnar nerve and 2-5 FAST electrodes in the median nerve. 2. Five human hand and forearm amputees (amputated at the level of the forearm) with 2 FAST electrodes in the ulnar nerve and 2-5 FAST electrodes in the median nerve . 2. Arm FAST electrodes 1. Five human partial hand amputees (amputated at the level of the hand) with 2 FAST electrodes in the ulnar nerve and 2-5 FAST electrodes in the median nerve. 2. Five human hand and forearm amputees (amputated at the level of the forearm) with 2 FAST electrodes in the ulnar nerve and 2-5 FAST electrodes in the median nerve. 3. Five human hand, forearm and arm amputees (amputated at the level of the arm) with 2 FAST electrodes in the ulnar nerve and 2-5 FAST electrodes in the median nerve.
NCT05548322
Our sense of touch is essential to explore our environment and experience life and is based on signals from receptors in the body that are sensitive to different types of stimulation. The TACTHUM projects aims to investigate the fundamental firing of mechanoreceptors in the body to various external stimuli, with an end-aim to better understand the human somatosensory system and to apply this knowledge to provide comprehensive sensory feedback in prosthetics. We have a vast system of peripheral receptors in the skin and muscles that provide us with exquisitely detailed information about our everyday interactions. When there is injury to a body part, such as in amputation, there is a significant loss of somatosensory input. Prosthetic devices have greatly developmed in the past few years, especially with the introduction of useful sensory feedback. However, there is a lot to discover both about the workings of the somatosensory system and how to recreate this to give feedback in a prosthetic device. The main objective of the TACTHUM project is to understand how to recover and apply useful somatosensory feedback in prostheses for amputees. There are a number of other sub-objectives, to: 1. Determine how tactile mechanoreceptors encode the texture of natural surfaces during passive and active exploration. 2. Investigate how our sense of touch varies with emotional state. 3. Explore what happens to our sense of touch when we explore surfaces at different temperatures. 4. Understand the origin of our perception of humidity. 5. Investigate differences in the encoding of tactile information with age. 6. Determine the perceptions generated by the stimulation of single tactile afferents. 7. Study changes in spontaneous activity and responses to tactile stimulation on the residual limb of amputees. To accomplish these objectives, we will primarily use the technique of microneurography, in vivo recordings from peripheral nerves, to gain direct information about the firing of peripheral neurons in humans. In conjunction with this, we will use a variety of mechanical and thermal stimuli to excite somatosensory fibers and register the activity of other physiological and perceptual measures. This will allow us to gain a fuller understanding of how the incoming somatosensory signals are interpreted and processed. Overall, we aim to explore how more naturalistic tactile interactions are encoded and how these can be translated to provide realistic prosthetic feedback.
NCT05768802
The purpose of this research study is to see how well a new type of myoelectric prosthesis works. A myoelectric prosthesis is a robotic limb for amputees that is controlled by sensing the activity of muscles in the body above the amputation level. This study involves a medical procedure to implant the Myoelectric Implantable Recording Array (MIRA) in the residual limb. The procedure will be performed under sedation by a physician. When muscles contract, they generate an electrical signal that can be sensed by MIRA and used to control the prosthetic limb. Myoelectric prosthetic limbs normally use electrodes that are placed on the surface of the skin to control different movements. However, MIRA is implanted under the skin, which could improve the ability to control the myoelectric prosthesis. After the MIRA is implanted, training will occur to learn how to control the prosthesis using the muscles in the residual limb. The device can stay implanted for up to one year. The device will be removed (explanted) by a physician.
NCT06938087
A dynamic energy storage and return foot prosthesis is a type of prosthesis designed to mimic and restore the functionality and natural movement of the limb that has been amputated. This type of prosthesis is designed to allow patients to perform daily activities, even very dynamic ones, with greater ease and efficiency. The distinguishing feature of a dynamic energy storage and return prosthesis is the presence of a system that accumulates mechanical energy during the support phase on the ground and returns it during the push phase, increasing the amount of push itself. In foot prostheses, it is common to use carbon fiber blades or springs that deform during the support of the foot and then restore themselves, returning elastic energy during the subsequent push. This helps reduce the effort required to walk and allows for more fluid and natural movements. Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology is ideal for highly customized and high-value production. Orthoses/prostheses are particularly suited to exploit the potential of this technology. However, the lack of functional materials that meet different design needs, such as structure and comfort of the devices, has limited the use of AM mainly in orthoses. AM is promising for orthoses due to its customization capability and reduced production costs compared to traditional solutions. In particular, it has been shown how continuous filament carbon printing can lead to the creation of prostheses that have dynamic and energy return characteristics similar to or even superior to commercial ones. The present pilot clinical investigation aims to provide indications regarding the safety and performance of the 3D printed prosthesis - named PROFIL - in a real-world scenario. The state of the art has not yet defined the performance and safety of 3D printed prostheses with thermoplastic materials and continuous carbon fiber. Since greater comfort and the possibility of performing physical activity more easily with the use of these devices is expected, it is considered of interest for clinical practice to evaluate these prostheses. The primary objective of the study is therefore to evaluate the safety and performance of the device during walking on flat surfaces and more demanding tasks. The secondary objectives aims at evaluate usability and deformation of the 3D printed prosthesis under different loading conditions (slow and fast walking, ascending and descending ramps or steps) by mean of fiber-glass sensors integrated in the prosthesis foot.
NCT07431944
Neuroma-related pain is a frequent and disabling condition after limb trauma and amputation. Available treatments often provide short-lasting or insufficient analgesia. The SILENCE-NEUROMA Trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled study designed to compare the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A versus local anesthetic injection for the treatment of neuroma-related pain. The primary outcome is pain reduction at 8 weeks after treatment.
NCT07432685
Combat-related extremity trauma frequently results in persistent pain, including neuropathic, residual limb, and phantom limb pain. The kinematics of injury-including energy level, direction of force, and dominant force components-may independently predict tissue deformation, nerve stress, and the transition from acute to chronic- pain. This prospective observational cohort study will assess whether kinematics-only variables predict chronic pain outcomes after combat-related upper and lower limb injuries. Pain outcomes will include pain intensity, pain extent (surface/area), neuropathic pain features, and mechanical pain sensitivity measured using von Frey filaments.
NCT06471855
Most of the limb amputation related to vascular disease is often secondary to a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The amputation involves significant motor, psychological, and social challenges for patients, with a major effect on their psycho-physical health. The psychological processes that characterize this clinical population are still poorly investigated. Adopting a biopsychosocial approach, the present randomized prospective quali-quantitative study protocol aims to evaluate the behavioural and psychological adaptation at various stages of the disease: risk of amputation, lower limb amputation, and prosthesis use. In the last phase, patients with prosthesis will receive traditional rehabilitation treatment and technology-based rehabilitation (experimental) or not (active comparator) with randomized controlled enrolment. The evaluation will be based on a semi-structured interview, specific to the disease stage and constructed using the Three Factor Model, and rating scales. Patient's medical history, functional status (ie, motor functionality, autonomy in BIM and FIM, risk of falls, subjective perceived pain), and psychological aspects (ie, emotional impact, HRQoL, anxiety and depression symptoms, personality traits, acceptance, adherence, body image, the experience of the prosthesis and technology-based rehabilitation, expectations for the future) will be investigated. The audio-recorded and transcribed interviews will be analyzed using the Interpretive Description approach.
NCT07420192
This prospective, observational cohort study evaluates the long-term outcomes of Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface (RPNI) surgery in patients with major lower extremity amputations suffering from symptomatic neuromas. RPNI is a surgical technique where the transected nerve end is implanted into a free autologous muscle graft to serve as a physiological target for reinnervation. The study aims to objectively assess the reduction in mechanical hypersensitivity using Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) measurements via a digital algometer. Additionally, it monitors subjective neuropathic pain levels, functional mobility, and prosthesis satisfaction over a 24-month follow-up period compared to pre-operative baselines.
NCT06737770
Limb amputation is a traumatic event that significantly reduces the ability to perform daily activities, impairs mobility, and lowers quality of life. In Italy, approximately 4 million people live with disabilities, with 1.2 million having motor disabilities. Among lower limb amputees (around 200,000), most are elderly, with amputations due to diabetic or vascular issues. Other groups include middle-aged adults (often victims of workplace accidents) and young individuals (victims of traffic accidents). Post-amputation rehabilitation mainly involves the use of prostheses, which, however, can cause skin problems due to the socket (the part that anchors the prosthesis to the residual limb). Among patients using a socket, 34-63% develop chronic skin issues and pain. Complications include excessive sweating, sores, abscesses, and irritation. Additionally, daily volume changes in the residual limb and long-term weight fluctuations further complicate the use of conventional prostheses. In the last two decades, research groups, assisted by experienced surgeons, have worked to develop implant solutions that bypass the socket and address these issues. One such solution is osteointegrated prostheses, which use the principle of osteointegration to anchor the prosthesis directly to the bone of the residual limb. A metal stem is surgically inserted into the medullary canal of the residual limb and fixed through bone growth, establishing a direct connection between the amputated limb and the external prosthesis. Osteointegrated prostheses are widely accepted worldwide as a valid alternative to socket prostheses, especially for young and active individuals with transfemoral, transtibial, transhumeral, or transradial amputations not caused by vascular issues. The key benefit of osteointegration is the restoration of load alignment along the anatomical and mechanical axis, improving control of the residual limb during walking, as well as overall functional capacity and quality of life. Other advantages include greater stability, enhanced sitting comfort, a wider range of hip movement, faster attachment and detachment of the prosthesis, and improved body perception. Additionally, the direct contact between the metal stem and the bone generates sensory feedback (osteoperception), allowing the patient to better control the amputated limb by perceiving ground contact through vibrations transmitted to the bone. Osteointegration offers the only viable alternative for prosthetic use in patients with a short residual limb, where conventional socket prostheses would not be suitable.
NCT02551484
50 patients will be included for each of the 2 procedures: \- For procedure 1: Patients will be selected during multidisciplinary consultations for amputees who are stabilized with their definitive prosthesis and have returned to their usual place of residence. The aim of this procedure is to show the validity and reproducibility of measurements of tissue oxygenation using NIRS (TcPO2 being the reference measurement), to determine the way in which NIRS measurements are more precise (i.e. in terms of validity and reproductibility) (values at rest with the patient lying perfectly flat or with the amputated limb raised 30°). These patients will require a single visit which will include measurements by NIRS and TCPO2, a walk test and the completion of 2 questionnaires (visual scale). \- For procedure 2: The patients will be included in the initial phase of postamputation rehabilitation, during the period of in-hospital rehabilitation. The main problems of healing and tolerance to the temporary prosthesis arise during this phase. The specific objectives will be: To show that measurement by NIRS predicts the quality of healing in trans-tibial amputees; to show that the zone of uncertainty concerning the predictive values for the viability of the stump is smaller with NIRS than with TcPO2 (better discrimination). NIRS and TCPO2 measurements as well as the evaluation of stump healing will be done 15, 30 and 45 days after the amputation.