Blue dye may stop phantom pain after amputation

NCT ID NCT05830630

First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether adding methylene blue to a standard numbing medicine (bupivacaine) delivered through a nerve catheter can reduce pain after lower leg amputation and prevent chronic phantom limb pain. About 72 adults scheduled for above- or below-knee amputation will receive either the methylene blue mixture or a standard solution for 72 hours after surgery. Researchers will measure pain levels and track whether phantom pain develops over the following months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
methylene blue plus bupivacaine
What this could lead to
If it works, this approach could offer a simple, low-cost way to reduce both immediate post-surgery pain and the risk of long-term phantom limb pain after amputation.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study. Methylene blue is not yet proven for this use, and there is a risk of allergic reaction or other side effects. The results may not apply to all amputation patients.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Tanta University

    RECRUITING

    Tanta, Gharbia Governorate, 31527, Egypt

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

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