Using electrical stimulation to improve nerve healing in the arm
The Effectiveness of a New Treatment for Patients With Peripheral Nerve Injuries in the Upper Limb
This study is testing if using electrical stimulation after surgery can help people with arm nerve injuries recover better and improve their hand function.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT02403661 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to assess the functional deficits caused by injuries to the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves in the arm, and to evaluate the effectiveness of electrical stimulation applied post-surgery to enhance nerve regeneration. The researchers will measure improvements in hand function and nerve recovery through various assessments, including symptom severity questionnaires and nerve conduction studies. Previous animal studies have shown that even short durations of electrical stimulation can significantly improve nerve regeneration, prompting this investigation in humans. The intervention is designed to be safe and minimally uncomfortable for participants.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with severe injuries to the brachial plexus resulting in complete denervation.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological conditions or cognitive impairments that prevent informed consent will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved recovery and hand function for patients with severe nerve injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in animal models have shown promising results with electrical stimulation for nerve regeneration, but this approach is novel in human subjects.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with severe injury to the brachial plexus causing complete denervation. Exclusion Criteria: * The presence of other neurologic conditions. * Cognitive compromise that renders the patients unable to understand and consent to the study. * Minors younger than the age of 18.
Where this trial is running
Edmonton, Alberta
- University of Alberta — Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ming Chan, MB ChB — University of Alberta
- Study coordinator: Ming Chan, MB ChB
- Email: ming.chan@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 7804921614
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.