Harnessing Neuroplasticity to Enhance Functional Recovery During Chronic Recovery From Upper Extremity Nerve Repair

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA · Jul 25, 2018

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help people recover better after certain types of hand and nerve surgeries. The research focuses on using a combination of brain training exercises and a gentle form of brain stimulation called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). This stimulation is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't require surgery or needles, and it may help the brain adapt and improve its function, potentially leading to better use of the hand after an injury or transplant.

To participate in this trial, individuals should be between the ages of 65 and 74 and have had a hand transplant, reattachment after amputation, or nerve repair surgery. It's important that these surgeries took place about 12 to 18 months ago and that the individual is in the chronic stage of recovery, meaning they are still working on regaining function. However, there are some exclusions, such as those with severe brain trauma or certain medical conditions. If eligible, participants can expect to engage in specific rehabilitation exercises combined with brain stimulation sessions designed to enhance their recovery process.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals whom have received a unilateral allogeneic transplantation proximal to the wrist and are at the chronic stage of recovery (approx. 12 - 18 months following surgery, when Tinel's sign reaches the distal fingertips).
• • Individuals whom have undergone a complete amputation the hand between the wrist and elbow followed by successful re-attachment and are at the chronic stage of recovery (approx. 12 - 18 months following surgery, when Tinel's sign reaches the distal fingertips).
• • Individuals whom have undergone repairs of the median, ulnar, or other related or nearby nerve(s) following complex volar forearm lacerations or other injuries between the distal wrist crease and the flexor musculotendinous junctions. Individuals must be at the chronic stage of recovery (approx. 12 - 18 months following surgery, when Tinel's sign reaches the distal fingertips).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals with significant/severe brain trauma
• • Serious psychiatric conditions
• • Chronic or severe neurological conditions.
• • Current pregnancy
• • History of seizures or unexplained loss of consciousness
• • Metallic implants above the chest
• • Certain implanted medical devices.