A New Surgical Method for Upper Limb Amputation to Improve Control and Sensation with Advanced Prosthetics

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring a new surgical method for upper limb amputations to improve voluntary control and restore sensation and proprioception in amputated limbs. This phase I pilot trial will compare outcomes of modified above elbow or below elbow amputations with traditional amputations in adult patients. The study aims to develop a standardized procedure, measure motor control and proprioceptive feedback, and validate the benefits of the new technique over standard methods. Participants will receive either a modified amputation procedure that preserves or reconstructs dynamic muscle pairings and redirects sensory nerves, or a standard amputation without these modifications. The modified surgery targets specific muscles and nerves to create a biological interface that can better connect with next-generation prosthetic devices. Ten patients will receive the modified procedure and ten will undergo the standard approach, with some procedures performed at Brigham & Womens Hospital and others at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. During the study, participants will be monitored for motor unit innervation, motor unit movement, and proprioceptive recovery over up to 36 months. Secondary outcomes include rates of infection, wound healing, surgical revisions, seroma formation, and mortality, as well as assessments of general health, muscle atrophy, and sensory recovery. Participants will provide feedback on their sensorimotor recovery and will be followed closely with various assessments to evaluate the functional and sensory outcomes of the new amputation technique.

A Novel Approach to Upper Extremity Amputation to Augment Volitional Control and Restore Proprioception