Electrophysiologic effects of 360° capsular release for frozen shoulder
Electrophysiological Evidence of Neural Function Improvement After Extended Arthroscopic Circumferential Capsular Release for Adhesive Capsulitis
Acibadem University · NCT07495306
We will test whether arthroscopic 360° capsular release causes measurable changes in axillary and musculocutaneous nerve function in adults (21–70) with frozen shoulder who haven't improved with conservative care.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Acibadem University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Istanbul) |
| Trial ID | NCT07495306 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This prospective, single-center observational study enrolls adults aged 21–70 with adhesive capsulitis who are scheduled for arthroscopic 360° capsular release. Participants undergo baseline and follow-up electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to detect morphological and functional changes in the axillary and musculocutaneous nerves after inferior capsular release and peri-coracoid dissection. Surgical technique and perioperative findings will be recorded and correlated with electrophysiological data. The study aims to quantify the frequency, pattern, and clinical relevance of any nerve alterations associated with circumferential capsular release.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21–70 with adhesive capsulitis who have not improved with conservative treatments and are scheduled for arthroscopic 360° capsular release and can provide informed consent for EMG testing.
Not a fit: Patients with known peripheral neuropathy, prior brachial plexus or ipsilateral neurovascular surgery, active infection, coagulation disorders, or pregnancy are excluded and would not benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the results could clarify nerve risk during 360° capsular release and help surgeons refine techniques to reduce the chance of nerve injury.
How similar studies have performed: Neurological complications after shoulder arthroscopy are reported as rare, and prior data on electrophysiological effects of circumferential capsular release are limited, so this represents a relatively novel prospective evaluation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 21 and 70 years * Diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) * Persistent symptoms despite conservative treatment (e.g., physical therapy, medication, or intra-articular injections) * Planned arthroscopic capsular release surgery * Ability to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Known peripheral neuropathy * Previous brachial plexus injury * History of ipsilateral shoulder neurovascular surgery * Previous proximal brachial plexus surgery * Coagulation disorders * Active infection * Pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Istanbul, Istanbul
- Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Hospital — Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nezih Ziroglu, MD — Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University
- Study coordinator: Nezih Ziroglu, MD
- Email: nezih.ziroglu@yahoo.com
- Phone: +90 505 631 6484
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Adhesive Capsulitis, Frozen Shoulder, 360° Capsular Release, Shoulder Arthroscopy, Electromyography, Axillary Nerve, Musculocutaneous Nerve, Peripheral Nerve Function