Open vs ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release ( CTS )

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This multicenter, prospective observational study follows patients undergoing either open surgical carpal tunnel release or ultrasound-guided release. Centers assign treatment based on their standard practice rather than randomization, with 200 participants split evenly between the two cohorts. Participants are assessed before surgery and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 12 months after the procedure to evaluate functional recovery, symptoms, pain, return to work, satisfaction, and complications. The analysis focuses on clinical outcomes, patient-reported outcomes, and socioeconomic impact. The aim is to understand whether the less invasive ultrasound-guided approach offers advantages over the traditional open procedure in real-world settings.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Electrophysiologically verified Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by EMG/nerve conduction studies, with the examination not older than 6 months at the time of inclusion.
* Previous documented and exhausted conservative treatment
* Existing indication for surgery that has been discussed with the patient and the patient's explicit wish to undergo surgical treatment.
* Ability to provide informed consent and written informed consent
* Age ≥18 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous surgery at the affected location or revision procedures.
* Pre-existing nerve lesions of the upper extremity, including traumatic transections or proximal injuries.
* Manifest polyneuropathy.
* Foreseeable loss to follow-up, for example inability to contact the participant or insufficient compliance, before the critical 3-month follow-up.
* Age under 18 years.

Where it's running

• AUVA General Trauma Hospital Salzburg
  Salzburg, Austria Recruiting
• University Institute of Radiology, Paracelsus Medical Private University Salzburg
  Salzburg, Austria Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Alexander M.T. Paszicsnyek, Dr.
• Email: alexander.paszicsnyek@auva.at
• Phone: +43 5939344211

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.