How rotator cuff tear size and type affect suprascapular nerve function
SupraScapular Cuff Study: Assessing the Effects of Size and Type of Rotator Cuff Tear on Suprascapular Nerve Function
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stoke-on-Trent) |
| Trial ID | NCT06002009 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: Previous case reports and small series have linked large or retracted rotator cuff tears with suprascapular neuropathy, but prospective, systematic data are limited.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Stoke-on-Trent
- 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
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.