Clinical Research Directory

Randomized Study of an Analgesic Device Enabling Local Anesthetic Delivery and Neuromodulation After Shoulder/Foot Surgery

Postoperative pain remains undertreated with inadequate analgesic options. Opioids have well-known limitations for both individuals and society; single-injection and continuous peripheral nerve blocks provide intense analgesia but are limited in duration to 24-72 hours; and current neuromodulation options-with a duration measured in weeks and not hours-are prohibitively expensive and require an additional procedure. One possible solution is a device currently under investigation to treat postoperative pain. The RELAY system (Gate Science, Moultonborough, New Hampshire) is comprised of a basic catheter-over-needle device to allow administration of a single-injection of local anesthetic via the needle (or catheter) followed by a perineural local anesthetic infusion via the remaining catheter (when desired). Subsequent to the local anesthetic administration, instead of removing the catheter as with all previous continuous peripheral nerve block equipment, electric current may be delivered via the same catheter and an integrated pulse generator for up to 28 days. This is potentially revolutionary because it would allow an anesthesiologist to deliver (1) a single-injection peripheral nerve block; (2) a continuous peripheral nerve block; and (3) neuromodulation using a single device that can theoretically be placed in the same amount of time required for a single-injection peripheral nerve block. Instead of providing fewer than 24 hours of postoperative analgesia, up to 28 days of pain control could be delivered without disruption of existing practice patterns. The ultimate objective of the proposed investigation is to investigate the post-operative analgesic potential of this investigational device and prepare for a pivotal multicenter clinical trial.

Rotator Cuff Repairs With or Without BioEnthesis™ Augmentation

Rotator cuff (RC) injuries are particularly prevalent, difficult to repair, and attachment between the bone and tendon is notoriously difficult to achieve. The most common method and current standard of care (SOC) for reattaching connective tissues (e.g., ligaments, tendons) to bone typically involves suture anchor-based techniques, but this is fraught with problems. More specifically, re-tearing of the connective tissue after this procedure occurs in 30-60% of cases, and can be even higher in patients who engage in smoking, have a diagnosis of diabetes, etc. To address these clinical challenges, Sparta Biopharma Inc. (Sparta) developed a unique technology, called BioEnthesis, to improve the connection between the tendon and bone. Pre-clinical in vivo studies demonstrated that the biphasic bovine cancellous matrix regenerated at the bone-soft tissue interface-thereby leading to high structural integrity and will likely lead to reduced re-tear rates over time. The investigators hypothesize that patients in this interventional cohort will experience enhanced mobility, reduced pain, and less re-tears after RC procedures versus a standard suture anchor-based repair.

Optimal Dosing of IC-Green for Visualization of Rotator Cuff Vascularity Using Advanced Imaging Modality Arthroscopy

Rotator cuff re-tear is a common delayed complication of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. This process of re-tear is multifactorial and there has not been any readily identifiable perioperative measure that is predictive of subsequent rotator cuff failure. There have been no human studies looking at intraoperative assessment of rotator cuff vascularity, nor the predictive value that vascularity may have for rotator cuff re-tear. Indocyanine Green (ICG) has been safely used in patients for visualization purposes and has real potential for identifying vascularity in arthroscopic surgical patients. The aim of this study is to establish a standard dosing protocol for ICG in the arthroscopic visualization of rotator cuff vascularity.

FiberLocker® System Augmentation of Rotator Cuff Repairs

The purpose of this study is to prospectively evaluate healing, functional clinical outcomes, and safety of arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs augmented with the FiberLocker® System (encompassing the SpeedPatch® PET and the FiberLocker® Instrument). The primary outcome measure is healing evaluation based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at a minimum of 6 months post-operatively. The secondary outcome measures are the Sugaya classification, Goutallier Stage and tendon quality based on MRI as well as objective scores and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) from validated outcome scoring systems.

Preoperative Versus Postoperative Interscalene Block in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

This study is evaluating whether the timing of an interscalene nerve block affects pain control and recovery after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery. An interscalene block is commonly used to reduce pain after shoulder surgery. However, it is not known whether administering the block before surgery or after surgery provides better outcomes. Participants undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair are assigned to receive the interscalene block either before the surgical incision or after completion of the procedure. The study compares postoperative pain levels, opioid medication use, length of hospital stay, and ultrasound imaging quality during block administration between the two groups. Functional recovery is also assessed using patient-reported outcome measures during follow-up. The investigators hypothesize that administration of the interscalene block before surgery may provide superior early pain control and reduce postoperative opioid requirements while maintaining similar functional outcomes compared with administration after surgery.

Perianchor Cyst Formation, Tendon Healing, and Clinical Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Perianchor cyst formation is frequently observed after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair; however, its clinical significance remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between anchor-related parameters and cyst formation, as well as their association with tendon healing and functional outcomes.

Comparison of Partial Rotator Cuff Repair vs. Superior Capsular Reconstruction for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears

The primary objective of this prospective randomized controlled trial is to compare pain and functional outcomes between two surgical modalities for irreparable rotator cuff tears as measured by the pain visual analog scale (VAS), simple shoulder test (SST), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgery shoulder score (ASES), and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) 29 score at 6 weeks, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-operatively. The two surgical modalities of interest are partial rotator cuff repair alone and partial rotator cuff repair with superior capsule reconstruction (SCR). The secondary objective of this study is determine the failure rate of partial repair alone vs. partial repair with SCR via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 12 months post-operatively. The information gained from this investigation will be useful to discern if SCR provides any benefit to patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. The investigators hypothesize that there is no statistically significant difference in pain and functional outcomes between partial rotator cuff repair alone versus partial rotator cuff repair with SCR. In addition, the investigators hypothesize that the failure rate will be significantly higher in patients undergoing partial rotator cuff repair with SCR.

Innovating Physical Therapy: A Pilot Study on Band Connect's Impact on Compliance, Satisfaction, and Revenue

Participants are being invited to take part in this research study because you will be undergoing total shoulder replacement or rotator cuff repair and will be participating in physical therapy rehabilitation following the procedure. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of Band Connect, a connected health platform, in enhancing compliance with home exercise programs among patients undergoing physical therapy. This study aims to evaluate the implications of increased compliance on improving patient engagement and increasing satisfaction for both patients and clinicians. Additionally, the study will analyze the economic implications of implementing Band Connect's hybrid care model on driving increased revenue per patient.

Effect of Central Sensitization on Response to Physical Therapy in Patients With Partial Supraspinatus Tear

This prospective observational study aims to investigate whether central sensitization influences the response to physical therapy in patients with partial supraspinatus tendon tears. Participants will undergo standardized clinical evaluation before treatment and after a 6-week physical therapy program. Pain intensity, shoulder function, disability, and central sensitization-related symptoms will be assessed using validated outcome measures. The study seeks to determine the relationship between baseline central sensitization status and treatment outcomes, thereby identifying factors that may predict rehabilitation success and support individualized treatment strategies for patients with partial supraspinatus tears.

TESS V3 Modular Total Shoulder System PMCF

This is a multicenter, retrospective and prospective, non-controlled post market surveillance study. The objectives of this study are to confirm safety, performance and clinical benefits of the T.E.S.S.® Version 3 Anatomic and Reverse Modular Total shoulder prosthesis and its instrumentation.

Effect of Mobilization With Movement in Patients With Rotator Cuff Lesions

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of Mobilization with Movement (MWM) on pain and functional status in individuals with rotator cuff lesions. Rotator cuff pathology is a common cause of shoulder pain and functional limitation, and impairments in proprioception may further compromise shoulder motor control and recovery. Eligible participants with rotator cuff lesions will be randomly allocated into three groups: (1) Mobilization with Movement (MWM), (2) conventional physiotherapy, and (3) control group. All participants will be evaluated before and after the intervention period. Outcome measures will include shoulder-related functional disability assessed by the QuickDASH questionnaire, pain intensity, and shoulder joint position sense evaluated using an active repositioning test with a laser pointer during shoulder flexion. The study is designed to determine whether MWM provides additional benefits over conventional treatment or task oriented training intervention in improving pain, function, and proprioceptive accuracy. The findings are expected to contribute to evidence-based conservative rehabilitation strategies for patients with rotator cuff lesions.

Effect of Kinesio Taping After Rotator Cuff Surgery

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether postoperative kinesio taping provides additional benefits in pain reduction and functional recovery in patients who have undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Patients diagnosed with rotator cuff tear who have undergone surgical treatment will be randomly assigned into two groups. One group will receive standard postoperative rehabilitation together with kinesio taping applied for three weeks, while the control group will receive standard postoperative rehabilitation alone. Pain levels and shoulder function will be assessed during postoperative follow-up using commonly accepted clinical evaluation scales. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the role of kinesio taping in the recovery process after rotator cuff surgery.

Post-Market Clinical Follow-up (PMCF) Study of the Pitch-Patch for the Augmentation or Reinforcement of the Rotator Cuff

This is a clinical investigation study. It will verify the long-term safety and performance of the Pitch-Patch when implanted to reinforce partially repairable rotator cuff tears and used as described by the manufacturer's instructions. The medical device in this study is already on the market and is manufactured by Xiros Ltd. The Pitch-Patch is a single-use polyester prosthesis available in two sizes (30x20mm and 35x25mm). It is reinforced around the perimeter and around each eyelet to provide strength and stability to the device and repair. The study will collect data on patients who meet the entry criteria and have received the device. This is a single-armed study, meaning all patients will have a Pitch-Patch. The total length of the study is expected to be 3 years. A minimum of 37 patients will be enrolled into the study. Patients will be enrolled at a study specific follow up visit 2-2.5 years after implant, and data for baseline, procedure, and other time points prior to 2 years (3month, 6month, and 1 year post surgery) will be collected retrospectively from medical records if available.

Rotator Cuff Tears Repair With or Without Dermal Patch Augmentation

The Investigators are planning to conduct a Pilot study of 40 patients of Pragmatic randomised controlled trial comparing rotator cuff tendons repair (small tendons around the shoulder ) with or without augmentative patch. It includes patients between age groups 50 to 75 years with large (≥ 3cm and \< 5 cm ) rotator cuff tear that can be fully repaired using open or mini open repair with or without an augmentation with a human dermal matrix allograft (processed skin graft from a human donor ). The main aim is to examine whether the addition of the patch helps to reduce the rate of re-tear of the rotator cuff tendons at one year following surgery. Patients are randomized to receive either a repair with addition of an augmentative patch or a repair without a patch and have an identical follow-up after surgery. Patients are followed up in outpatient at 6 weeks , 3 months and 12 months after randomization and receive an Magnetic Resonant Imaging (MRI) scan 12 months after surgery. The primary outcome measure is to assess the Re-tear rate of rotator cuff at 12 months after surgery. The secondary outcome measure is to assess functional scores of the shoulder at 12 months . The tertiary outcome measures are to check the cost effectiveness of each procedure.

The Effectiveness of High-intensity Laser Therapy After Arthroscopic Shoulder Rotator Cuff Repair.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) as an adjunct to conventional rehabilitation in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Despite surgical repair, patients frequently experience postoperative pain, limited range of motion, and delayed functional recovery. Conventional physiotherapy represents the standard of care; however, additional strategies may be needed to optimize outcomes. High-intensity laser therapy has been proposed as a non-invasive intervention with potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but its effectiveness in the postoperative setting remains unclear. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of two groups: an experimental group receiving HILT in addition to conventional physiotherapy, and a control group receiving sham laser therapy combined with the same rehabilitation program. Both groups will undergo standardized rehabilitation sessions including therapeutic exercise. The primary outcome is pain intensity, measured using the Visual Analog Scale. Secondary outcomes include shoulder range of motion (active and passive), muscle strength, functional status assessed with the Constant-Murley Score, and patient-reported disability and quality of life measured using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand. Assessments will be conducted at baseline (at the start of rehabilitation), during the intervention period after the fourth (T1), seventh (T2), and tenth (T3) physiotherapy sessions, and at follow-up at 4 months.

Rotator Cuff Healing Using a Nanofiber Scaffold in Patients Greater Than 55 Years

Randomized controlled trial of patients over the age of 55 treated with and without a nanofiber scaffold during rotator cuff repair.

Prospective Study to Determine the Safety and Effectiveness of a Connective Tissue Allograft Active Matrix (AM) vs. Standard of Care in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

The purpose of this study is to see how well the ActiveMatrix® graft works at improving healing and function of the shoulder following rotator cuff repair surgery

Variation in Humeral Head Bone Marrow Characteristics With Rotator Cuff Repair Healing

This study investigates correlations between humeral head bone marrow characteristics and tendon healing of rotator cuff repairs. The anticipated results would motivate future research aimed to investigate local enrichment or transplantation of connective tissue progenitor cells to augment rotator cuff repair and the pursuit of novel methods of bone marrow screening to preoperatively identify patients with bone marrow characteristics related to rotator cuff repair success or failure.

BioBrace® Implant for Arthroscopic Repair of Full Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears

This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair augmented with the BioBrace® Implant vs. arthroscopic rotator cuff repair alone in subjects requiring surgical intervention for a full-thickness rotator cuff tear.

Effect of Motor Imagery Training on Pain, Functionality, Proprioception and Kinesiophobia in Partial Rotator Cuff Tear

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of motor imagery training on pain, functionality, proprioception and kinesiophobia in patients with partial rotator cuff tears. Participants will be randomly assigned to traditional physiotherapy and motor imagery groups. Interventions will be performed with a physiotherapist for a total of 20 sessions for 4 weeks, 5 days a week. The intervention program will be determined by the Specialist Physical Therapy Physician. Data will be collected before the study, at the end of the training in the 4th week and at the 8th week (follow-up evaluation). Motor imagery ability will be assessed with the Movement Imagery Questionnaire (MIQ-R), pain will be assessed with the Numerical Assessment Scale for functionality with the DASH, proprioception will be assessed with the inclinometer and kinesiophobia will be assessed with the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale.

Pain Education After Rotator Cuff Surgery

Study Title: The Effect of Pain Neuroscience Education Combined with Conventional Rehabilitation on Pain Management and Functional Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Mini-Open Rotator Cuff Repair Purpose: This study aims to investigate whether adding Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) to a conventional rehabilitation program improves pain management, physical function, and psychosocial outcomes in patients who have undergone mini-open surgery for rotator cuff tears (RCT). The study will also compare the effects of PNE when delivered before versus after surgery. Who Can Participate: Adults aged 40-75 who have been diagnosed with a medium-sized rotator cuff tear and are scheduled for mini-open surgical repair. Participants must meet specific health criteria and be willing to participate in the rehabilitation program. Study Details: Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group 1: Conventional rehabilitation only. Group 2: Conventional rehabilitation + PNE before surgery. Group 3: Conventional rehabilitation + PNE after surgery. PNE involves educational sessions that explain the biology of pain, how the nervous system processes pain, and strategies to reduce fear and catastrophizing related to pain. The study will last approximately 12 weeks, with regular assessments of pain levels, physical function, and psychosocial factors (e.g., fear of movement, depression, sleep quality). Potential Benefits: Participants may experience reduced pain, improved shoulder function, and better overall recovery. The study may provide valuable insights into how PNE can enhance rehabilitation outcomes for patients with rotator cuff tears. Potential Risks: Some participants may find the educational sessions time-consuming or mentally challenging. There is a small risk of discomfort during physical assessments or rehabilitation exercises. Why is this study important?: Rotator cuff tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and disability, especially in older adults. Post-surgical pain and fear of movement can slow recovery and reduce quality of life. This study will help determine whether PNE, when combined with conventional rehabilitation, can improve recovery outcomes and provide a better understanding of how timing (before or after surgery) affects its effectiveness.

Stem Cell Treatment for Regeneration of the Rotator Cuff (Lipo-Cuff Study)

Treatment of rotator cuff tears with micro-fragmented adipose tissue is a minimal-invasive procedure with the potential to shorten and ease recovery, accelerate return to daily activity and work of thus with a potential capacity to improve the functional result compared to conventional surgery alone. The study will provide evidence whether the addition of micro-fragmented adipose tissue therapy can augment conventional rotator cuff tear treatment. The study will also reveal whether this treatment can be feasible for standard care of patients with rotator cuff tear as it will be simple to standardize. Moreover, besides providing a novel treatment for patients with rotator cuff tears, the project will based on data from muscle biopsies and scanning modalities, generate new knowledge, preparing for precision regenerative medicine in shoulder disease.

Tornier HRS (Humeral Reconstruction System) Study (REVIVE)

This is an international, single arm, multicenter, prospective follow-up, non-significant risk, Post-Market Clinical Follow-up (PMCF) study. Data will be collected for the commercially available Tornier HRS (HUMERAL RECONSTRUCTION SYSTEM) shoulder system in both the anatomic and reversed configurations. Retrospective inclusions are allowed: study patients may be enrolled up to 3 months after date of surgery provided that the necessary pre-operative (baseline) and surgery data are accessible. Follow-up visits conducted from 3-month post-surgery onward must be prospective. The purpose of this study is to collect data needed to satisfy the European Union (EU) Medical Device Regulation (MDR) clinical post-market surveillance (PMS) and reporting requirements, and to support future regulatory submissions and peer-reviewed publications on device performance and safety.

Sex Hormone Supplementation and Rotator Cuff Repair: A Preliminary Randomized Trial

Shoulder tendon tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and disability and after surgery the repaired tendon often does not heal. In this pilot study, men with low sex hormone levels will be randomly assigned to receive sex hormone therapy or placebo pills while healing from tendon repair surgery in their shoulder. Sex hormone therapy increases sex hormone levels, and the investigators will test whether these increased sex hormone levels show promise in improving tendon healing and patient shoulder function and pain.