Nerve transfer surgery may restore hand function after spinal cord injury

NCT ID NCT01714349

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether nerve transfer surgery can restore hand function in people with cervical spinal cord injury. Participants undergo a personalized nerve transfer procedure to reconnect nerves and improve arm and hand strength. Researchers track changes in motor strength and daily function over four years. The study includes adults aged 18-65 with stable injuries and limited hand function.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Nerve transfer surgery
What this could lead to: If successful, this surgical approach could restore meaningful hand function in people with spinal cord injury, improving independence and quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 20 participants, and results may not apply to all injury types. Surgery carries risks like infection or incomplete recovery.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

quadriplegia spinal cord injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SPINAL CORD INJURY

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Washington University

St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

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