Decision aids may ease patient uncertainty in hand surgery

NCT ID NCT01693094

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether giving patients with hand problems like carpal tunnel syndrome or trigger finger a decision aid—a booklet with clear information about their condition and treatment options—helps them feel more satisfied and less conflicted about their choices. About 126 adults will be randomly assigned to receive the decision aid or usual care. The goal is to see if this simple tool improves decision-making and outcomes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
decision aid (educational materials and values clarification exercises)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could show that simple decision aids help patients feel more confident and satisfied with their treatment choices.
What could go wrong
This trial is small (126 patients) and suspended, so results may not be reliable or generalizable. It tests a behavioral tool, not a medical treatment, so the impact is limited.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.