CNS Changes Following Amputation
Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ZURICH · Sep 12, 2023
Trial Information
Current as of November 09, 2025
Recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial, titled "CNS Changes Following Amputation," aims to explore how the brain changes after someone is born without an upper limb, a condition known as upper limb amelia. Researchers want to understand how the brain processes sensory information and how these changes might affect everyday behaviors, like adapting to the absence of a hand or experiencing pain. By comparing individuals with upper limb amelia to healthy individuals, the study will use advanced imaging techniques and behavioral tests to learn more about how the brain reorganizes itself and whether early life experiences play a significant role in this process.
To participate in the study, you must be between 18 and 75 years old and have a complete absence of a hand due to congenital amputation. Participants will need to sign a consent form and will be assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and various tests. It’s important to note that individuals who have certain medical conditions or difficulties with MRI, such as claustrophobia, cannot participate. The study is currently recruiting and aims to provide valuable insights into the brain’s adaptability and how it relates to practical outcomes for those living with upper limb amelia.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria - Patients:
- • Age 18-75
- • Upper-limb congenital amputees with complete absence of a hand
- • Signed informed consent
- Exclusion Criteria - Patients:
- • Contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging
- • Neurological impairment of body function impairments not induced by spinal cord injury
- • BMI \> 40
- • Pregnancy
- • Claustrophobia
- Inclusion Criteria - Healthy subjects:
- • Age 18-75
- • Signed Informed consent
- Exclusion Criteria - Healthy subjects:
- • Contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging
- • Pregnancy
- • Neurological illness
- • Impairment of body function induced by a congenital upper-limb amputation
- • Claustrophobia
- • BMI \> 40
About University Of Zurich
The University of Zurich, a leading institution in research and education, is dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care through innovative clinical trials. With a robust framework for conducting high-quality research, the university collaborates with multidisciplinary teams of experts to explore cutting-edge therapeutic approaches and interventions. Its commitment to ethical standards and patient safety ensures that all clinical trials are conducted with the utmost integrity, aiming to contribute valuable insights to the medical community and enhance health outcomes globally.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Zurich, Switzerland
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Patrick Freund, Prof.
Principal Investigator
University of Zurich
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported