How to best place stimulating electrodes for the ulnar nerve in the wrist and how this compares to using anatomical landmarks
Official title: Comparison of Ultrasound and Anatomic Landmark Techniques of the Ulnar and Posterior Tibial Nerves
Run by Mayo Clinic · NCT07515911 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether lining up the stimulating electrode over the ulnar nerve using simple wrist measurements improves stimulation of the intrinsic hand muscles compared with landmark-based methods.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Mayo Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Jacksonville, Florida) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 2, 2026 |
| Main results expected | January 2027 |
| Study ends | January 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07515911 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
English-speaking adults without a history of ulnar neuropathy or previous ulnar nerve/wrist surgery and without upper extremity edema.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with prior ulnar nerve pathology or wrist surgery may not experience improved electrode placement from this approach.
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 from Mayo Clinic Jacksonville compares two approaches to placing stimulating electrodes over the ulnar nerve: ultrasound-guided or anatomic landmark positioning. The goal is to see if accurate nerve localization improves current delivery to the intrinsic hand muscles. Researchers will use hand and possibly foot/ankle measurements to guide electrode placement and will assess accuracy against a reference standard. The study aims to identify a simple, reliable description of wrist anatomy, such as a fraction of wrist width, that practitioners can use in routine care. It is expected to estimate nerve location within about 10% of total wrist width when the ulnar groove is clearly identified.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, clinicians may place stimulating electrodes more accurately and quickly, potentially improving nerve stimulation outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests that anatomical landmarks can guide nerve localization, but this study explores whether simple wrist measurements can enhance accuracy, making the approach somewhat novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: • English speaking Exclusion Criteria: * History of ulnar neuropathy or ulnar nerve or wrist surgery (i.e. carpal tunnel) * Upper extremity edema
Where it's running
-
Mayo Clinic
Jacksonville, Florida, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: J. Ross Renew, MD — Mayo Clinic
- Study coordinator: Ally R. Sapin, MS
- Email: sapin.alyssa@mayo.edu
- Phone: 904-956-3328
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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.