Amputation - Below the Knee (BKA)

Phantom limb pain - Ketamine is a very effective treatment for phantom limb pain, which is experienced in approximately 80% of amputees. In the cited article, an infusion of 300 mcg/kg + 2mg of versed in 60ml of crystalloid, given over 3 hours, and every other day for 12 days, substantially reduced/eliminated these problems. Approach - Many of these patients are very sick. It's been suggested that popliteal + saphenous blocks or spinals (if not contraindicated) with light sedation is a good approach for these patients.