How rotator cuff tear size and type affect suprascapular nerve function
Official title: SupraScapular Cuff Study: Assessing the Effects of Size and Type of Rotator Cuff Tear on Suprascapular Nerve Function
Run by University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust · NCT06002009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will see if the size and type of rotator cuff tears in adults can damage the suprascapular nerve.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stoke-on-Trent) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 23, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | September 3, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06002009 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (≥18 years) with a confirmed rotator cuff tear who can undergo MRI and nerve conduction studies and provide informed consent are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant shoulder bony pathology or abnormal anatomy, prior surgery on the affected shoulder, cervical or motor neuron disease, inability to have MRI or nerve conduction studies, recent fracture or recent dislocation, or those unwilling or unable to comply with study procedures are unlikely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study follows adults with confirmed rotator cuff tears and measures suprascapular nerve function using MRI and nerve conduction studies. Investigators will record tear size, pattern, and retraction and correlate imaging findings with baseline and follow-up nerve conduction results, including after surgical repair when applicable. Secondary aims include determining whether an injured suprascapular nerve can recover after repair, identifying a retraction threshold for irreversible injury, and finding factors that protect against nerve injury. The collected data will be used to suggest possible optimizations for operative procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, results could help surgeons predict and prevent suprascapular nerve damage, guide timing and technique of repairs, and improve shoulder outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous case reports and small series have linked large or retracted rotator cuff tears with suprascapular neuropathy, but prospective, systematic data are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: • All patients age ≥18 years presenting to a UHNM shoulder clinic with a confirmed diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear (affecting one or both shoulders). Exclusion Criteria: * Bony pathology (such as significant shoulder arthritis that would exclude isolated rotator cuff repair) * Grossly abnormal shoulder anatomy * Motor Neurone Disease * Cervical cord disease affecting the SSN nerve roots * Patients unable to undergo MRI scan * Previous surgery at the affected glenohumeral joint * Patients unable to tolerate NCS * Acute fracture affecting the glenohumeral joint * Recent glenohumeral joint dislocation (past 12 months) * Patients unable or unwilling to give full informed consent * Patients unable or unwilling to comply with the study procedures
Where it's running
-
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust
Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Damian McClelland — University Hospital of North Midlands NHS Trust
- Study coordinator: Megan Young
- Email: megan.young@uhnm.nhs.uk
- Phone: 01782 675384
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.