Clinical Research Directory

Long-term Clinical and Anatomical Evaluation of Edge-to-edge Repair of Large to Very Large Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff disorders range from impingement syndrome to partial or through-and-through tears. Partial tears most commonly affect the deep layer of the tendon, whilst through-and-through tears are characterised by a complete break in the tendon. Large to very large rotator cuff tears, where repairable, can be managed using equivalent transosseous repair and double-row repair. When direct anatomical tendon-to-bone repair is no longer possible, margin convergence (MC) suturing (also known as edge-to-edge suturing) is proposed. Studies have compared clinical outcomes between MC and other conventional techniques, but these results remain inconsistent and many studies have not ensured a sufficiently long period of patient follow-up to assess long-term clinical outcomes, resulting in an insufficient level of evidence regarding these outcomes. This is why this study has been initiated.

Ultrasound-Guided PENG Block for Chronic Shoulder Pain

The purpose of this prospective, observational study is to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes of ultrasound-guided Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block in patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain. Chronic shoulder pain is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal problem that significantly restricts daily activities and diminishes the patient's quality of life. While conservative treatments and various interventional injections are widely used, long-term efficacy can be limited, and systemic side effects may occur. The shoulder PENG block is a novel regional analgesia technique that specifically targets the articular (sensory) branches of the nerves innervating the shoulder joint capsule without affecting the motor branches. In this single-center study, a total of 45 eligible adult patients with chronic shoulder pain who did not respond to conservative medical treatments will receive an ultrasound-guided PENG block as part of their routine clinical care. The procedure will be performed under sterile conditions using a combination of local anesthetic (lidocaine) and dexamethasone. Patient pain levels will be assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), shoulder disability and functional status will be measured using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and overall patient satisfaction will be evaluated using the Global Perceived Effect (GPE) score. All parameters will be documented at baseline (before the procedure) and at follow-up visits on the 1st week, 4th week (1 month), and 3rd month post-procedure. The investigators aim to determine the efficacy, duration of effect, and safety profile of this intervention.

Perineural Injection Treatment for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that can lead to significant functional limitation and reduced quality of life. Conventional treatments often provide limited or temporary relief, highlighting the need for alternative approaches targeting peripheral pain mechanisms. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Perineural Injection Treatment (PIT) compared to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in patients with subacute or chronic shoulder pain. In this randomized controlled trial, participants are assigned to receive either PIT or TENS, in addition to a standardized exercise program. The intervention is delivered over two sessions within a two-week period. Pain intensity is assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and functional outcomes are measured using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence on the comparative effectiveness of PIT and TENS, and to support clinical decision-making in the management of shoulder pain.