Amputations in Childhood and Neuropathic Pain

Pediatric limb amputations are rare and may occur in the context of trauma, infection, tumors, or congenital malformations. In some congenital conditions, such as proximal femoral focal deficiency, therapeutic amputation may be proposed to improve prosthetic fitting, functional outcomes, and autonomy. One of the potential complications associated with limb amputation is the development of neuropathic pain, including phantom limb pain and residual limb pain. While these conditions are well documented in adults, their prevalence and impact in pediatric populations remain poorly understood.

Neuropathic pain may interfere with prosthetic use, functional abilities, quality of life, and long-term autonomy. In children who undergo amputation for functional purposes, the presence and consequences of neuropathic pain are important factors to consider when weighing the expected benefits of surgery. Early identification and management of neuropathic pain may also allow better anticipation and implementation of preventive or therapeutic strategies.

This monocentric observational study aims to describe the presence of neuropathic pain in children and adolescents who underwent limb amputation during childhood. Neuropathic pain is assessed using validated questionnaires, distinguishing between phantom limb pain and residual limb pain. The study also evaluates quality of life and functional autonomy using age-appropriate standardized assessment tools.

In addition, the study explores associations between neuropathic pain and functional autonomy, quality of life, age at amputation, and preoperative preventive treatments when applicable. Data are collected through a mixed retrospective and prospective approach, combining extraction of medical record information and a single administration of questionnaires during routine follow-up visits. No intervention or modification of standard clinical care is performed.

By providing descriptive data on neuropathic pain and its functional consequences after pediatric amputation, this study aims to contribute to improved clinical decision-making, pain management strategies, and long-term follow-up of children with limb amputations.

• Type of neuropathic pain after pediatric limb amputation [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Health-related quality of life [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Locomotor capability in lower limb amputees [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Upper limb functional ability [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Correlation between DN4 neuropathic pain score and SF-15 health-related quality of life score [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Correlation between DN4 neuropathic pain score and functional outcome scores (LCI and QuickDASH) [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]
• Correlation between DN4 neuropathic pain score and age at amputation [Срок оценки: At study inclusion]