Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Interventional Ages 18 and up

Comparing absorbable and non-absorbable sutures for carpal tunnel surgery

Official title: Absorbable Versus Non-absorbable Sutures for Wound Closure in Carpal Tunnel Release: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Gelre Hospitals · NCT05431101 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether using absorbable or non-absorbable stitches during carpal tunnel surgery affects the chances of getting an infection afterward.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment2604 (estimated)
SponsorGelre Hospitals
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Apeldoorn and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 1, 2022
Main results expectedMarch 1, 2028
Study endsApril 1, 2028
Registry record updatedAugust 26, 2025
Trial IDNCT05431101 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are individuals scheduled for carpal tunnel release surgery.

Probably not a fit

Patients who have previously undergone carpal tunnel surgery or have received corticosteroid injections for their condition may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the incidence of wound infections in patients undergoing carpal tunnel release surgery using either absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that can lead to significant discomfort and loss of function, and surgical decompression is the most effective treatment. The study aims to determine if the type of suture material used affects the rate of post-surgical infections. The primary outcome will be measured using the ASEPSIS wound score, assessed by independent investigators, while patients will also report their pain levels during recovery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify the optimal suture type to reduce the risk of wound infections after carpal tunnel surgery.

How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing debate in the literature regarding the superiority of absorbable versus non-absorbable sutures, this study aims to provide clearer evidence on the topic.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

• indication for carpal tunnel release

Exclusion Criteria:

* carpal tunnel syndrome which has yet been operated
* injection with corticosteroids

Where it's running

  • Gelre Ziekenhuizen
    Apeldoorn, Netherlands
    Recruiting
  • Deventer Ziekenhuis
    Deventer, Netherlands
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  • Ultrasound-guided needle release plus dextrose (D5W) hydrodissection for carpal tunnel syndrome

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.