CompletedPhase 4

Ultrasound Visualization Versus Electrical Nerve Stimulation

United States158 participantsStarted 2009-02

Plain-language summary

Hypothesis and Specific Aims: The investigators hypothesize that ultrasound (US) visualization is as effective as nerve stimulation (NS) for identification of peripheral nervous structures and may be associated with less trauma and patient discomfort. Specifically, the investigators believe that equivalent rates of surgical anesthesia are achievable with non-invasive ultrasonic needle guidance in comparison to needle guidance by intensity of motor fiber response to intermittent electrical nerve stimulation. Specifically, the number of needle sticks to identify the brachial plexus and total time to plexus sheath injection may be reduced while achieving similar efficacy rates. The investigators hypothesize that similar composite safety and efficacy endpoints but improved patient satisfaction and acceptance will favor US over NS guidance of nerve blocks indicated for surgery on the extremity surgery. However, the investigators believe that an economic assessment based upon capital hardware investment, operating room utilization, total block time, and pay for performance patient satisfaction metrics require examination prior to assimilation of new technology into clinical practice.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Male or female patients older than 18 years of age at the time of screening * ASA Class I - IV, undergoing unilateral elective surgical procedure involving the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, or hand * Planned interscalene block Exclusion Criteria: * Peripheral neuropathy * Coagulopathy * Anticoagulant treatment that would preclude regional anesthesia * Local anesthetic allergy * Infection at the site of injection

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Incidence of Successful Block: defined by avoidance of General Anesthesia (which will be documented in the medical record as such)

Timeframe: 30 minutes after injection

Trial details

NCT IDNCT01010412

SponsorAllentown Anesthesia Associates

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2010-03

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Trauma to the Arm, Shoulder, Elbow, Forearm, or Hand trials