Comparing pectoralis minor release with no release during shoulder surgery

A Randomized Control Trial to Evaluate Release Versus Non-release of Pectoralis Minor With Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty

Not applicable Interventional Emory University · NCT06292169

This study tests if releasing a specific shoulder muscle during surgery can help people feel less pain and move their shoulder better after getting a reverse shoulder replacement.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEmory University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06292169 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of releasing the pectoralis minor muscle during reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) on postoperative pain and functional outcomes. Participants will be randomly assigned to either receive RSA with pectoralis minor release or without it. The study will measure pain relief, range of motion, and patient-reported outcomes to determine if the release provides any significant benefits. The research addresses a common issue of persistent anterior shoulder pain following RSA, which may be influenced by muscle tensioning.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults scheduled for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty who can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing revision arthroplasty, those with proximal humerus fractures, or individuals unable to consent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved pain management and functional recovery for patients undergoing reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of pectoralis minor release in RSA is novel, similar studies have shown that optimizing surgical techniques can lead to improved outcomes in shoulder surgeries.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* All patients undergoing surgery for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
* Patients willing and able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Revision arthroplasty
* Reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humerus fractures
* Adults unable to consent
* Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers)
* Pregnant women
* Prisoners

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia 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 Reverse Total Shoulder ArthroplastyRotator Cuff Tear ArthropathyAdvanced Glenohumeral OsteoarthritisReverse Shoulder ArthroplastyAmerican Shoulder and ElbowRange of motionPectoralis Minor
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.