Comparing absorbable and non-absorbable sutures for carpal tunnel surgery

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

Not applicable Interventional Gelre Hospitals · NCT05431101

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment2604 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGelre Hospitals Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Apeldoorn and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05431101 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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

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.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Apeldoorn and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Carpal Tunnel SyndromeWound InfectionSuture, Complicationcarpal tunnel syndromewound infectionabsorbable suturesnon-absorbable sutures
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.