Week-Long nerve block after amputation may stop phantom pain and slash opioid use
NCT ID NCT03461120
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a continuous nerve block given for 7 days after a leg amputation can prevent phantom limb pain and improve physical and emotional function. About 200 adults scheduled for a lower-limb amputation will receive either a high-concentration numbing medicine or a low-concentration one for one day followed by saltwater. The goal is to see if the longer, denser block reduces pain and the need for opioids.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
bupivacaine or ropivacaine (local anesthetics)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a standard way to prevent chronic phantom limb pain and reduce reliance on opioids after amputation.
What could go wrong
This is a Phase 4 trial, so the drugs are already approved, but the specific 7-day block approach may not prove better than standard care. Results may not apply to all amputation types.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Boston VA
Boston, Massachusetts, 02130, United States
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Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
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Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States
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Fairview Hospital
Cleveland, Ohio, 44111, United States
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Mass. General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
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Naval Medical Center San Diego
San Diego, California, 92134, United States
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University California San Diego
San Diego, California, 92103, United States
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University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, Texas, 77030, United States