Acetyl-l-carnitine to Enhance Nerve Regeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2017-09-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Study Hypothesis: Acetyl-l-carnitine increases nerve regeneration in patients with severe
carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is common, affecting almost 3% of the general population. In
severe cases, nerve regeneration and functional recovery are incomplete even with surgery.
The goal of this pilot project is to test a potentially promising medication,
acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR). We will use a randomized, double blinded, placebo controlled
study design. Along with surgery, those in the treatment group will also receive ALCAR while
the other half in the control group will be given placebo. To gauge the effects of ALCAR, we
will compare motor and sensory nerve growth as well as functional outcomes. The data from
this study will provide crucial information when designing a full scale clinical trial. If
successful, this will represent an important first step in finding a novel treatment to
improve functional outcomes in patients with severe CTS.