Phantom pain as an adverse effect after maggot (Lucilia sericata) debridement therapy: a case study

Abstract

Maggot debridement therapy, also known as larval therapy, is a well known method of treatment for hard-to-heal and intractable wounds. This case study describes severe phantom pain as a rare adverse event of maggot therapy in patients after post-traumatic amputation of the leg. We also hypothesise and discuss the possibility that the phantom pain may be a result of maggot activity, not only through tissue debridement but also through nerve nourishment and nerve regeneration.