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NCT Number: NCT07255651

Effect of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive Therapy on Pain and Range of Motion After Flexor Tendon Repair

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy (TECAR) on pain and range of motion (ROM) after hand flexor tendon repair.

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Key information

Conditions

Flexor Tendon Rupture

Age range

20 year–35 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Suez Canal University Hospital

Ismailia, Egypt

Location contact

Ahmed Mahmoud Ali Gabr Zarraa, PhD

CONTACT

Basma Rajai Amer Amer, B.Sc

CONTACT

[email protected]

+20 101 919 0709

About this study

Lacking satisfactory healing of intrasynovial tendons, such as the flexor tendons of the hand, is particularly challenging due to the formation of fibrous adhesions between the tendon, sheath and surrounding tissues which can further limit mobility.

Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy (TECAR) enhances the body's natural ability to repair tissues and reduce pain by improving blood flow and promoting additional benefits, such as cell proliferation. This process, primarily linked to the flow of current, supports cell growth and plays a significant role in the healing process.

There is a lack in quantitative knowledge and information in the published studies about the benefits of TEcar therapy on the improvement of hand function after long flexor tendon repair . So, this study is designed to outline the therapeutic impact of TEcar therapy on pain and ROM after hand flexor tendon repair.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Ages of patients will be ranged from 20 to 35 years.
  • All patients underwent flexor tendon primary direct repair
  • All patients will be referred by a surgeon before starting the study procedure.

Exclusion criteria

  • Patient with digital nerve repairs.
  • Patients with associated vascular injuries requiring arterial repair.
  • Patients with associated crush injuries and soft tissue loss.
  • Patients with associated bone fractures.
  • Patients with associated extensor tendon injuries .
  • Patients with preexisting problems limiting joint motion.
  • Patients with diminished cognitive capacity.
  • Patients with history of previously failed repair.
  • Patients with allergic reactions to certain substances in the conductive cream
  • Patients with sensation impairment .

Treatment and study plan

Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) therapy

Device

Before each session, cables will be checked, the therapist will explain the procedure, the patient will be positioned comfortably, and conductive cream will be applied. The active electrode will be moved in circular motions over the injured tendon while the inactive electrode will be placed under the forearm. Intensity will be set to a comfortable, moderate level based on patient sensation. Radio-frequency (RF) energy will be delivered via capacitive mode for 2 minutes per digit, then resistive mode for 4 minutes per digit (total 6 minutes per digit). Treatment will include 8 sessions, twice weekly.

Early mobilization protocol

Other

The dorsal splint/cast will position the wrist at neutral or 15-30° extension with metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints at 70-90° flexion, featuring low edges for exercise without removal. It will be worn full-time for the first 3 weeks post-surgery, then based on environmental safety (only during sleep and outside home if safe) for weeks 4-6. Patients will begin outpatient physical therapy from week 1 with active mobilization and home exercises every 2 hours. Dressings will be changed every other day. During weeks 1-2, passive/active flexion/extension will follow the Duran protocol (25-50% range of motion) with splint worn during therapy. Weeks 3-4 will progress to 75-100% range of motion, with splint removal at week 4 for active tenodesis exercises. Weeks 5-6 will add tendon gliding, blocking exercises, and light activities while avoiding strenuous lifting or gripping. This progressive protocol will ensure safe healing while gradually restoring function.

Primary outcomes

  1. Active range of motion (ROM) of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint

    Time frame: one month

    Active ROM of the PIP joint will be assessed, at the 2nd, 4th, and 6th postoperative weeks using a finger goniometer, with the patient sitting, forearm mid-position and supported on a plinth. The therapist will stabilize the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint in 90° flexion at the injured phalanx. The goniometer's axis will be placed over the upper surface of the PIP joint, with the stationary arm aligned to the proximal phalanx's longitudinal axis and the movable arm aligned to the middle phalanx's longitudinal axis. The patient will be instructed to actively flex and then extend the PIP joint through its full range (normally 0°-100°), and the measured ROM will be recorded.

  2. Active range of motion (ROM) of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint

    Time frame: one month

    Active ROM of the DIP joint will be assessed with the patient seated, forearm in mid-position and supported on the plinth. From a neutral wrist position, the therapist will stabilize the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint in 90° flexion and the middle phalanx in extension. The goniometer axis will be placed over the upper surface of the DIP joint, with the stationary arm aligned to the middle phalanx's longitudinal axis and the movable arm aligned to the distal phalanx. The patient will actively flex and extend the DIP joint through its full range (0°-90°), and the ROM will be recorded.

Study contacts

Contact information is provided by the study sponsor or research team.

Ahmed Mahmoud Ali Gabr Zarraa, PhD

CONTACT

Basma Rajai Amer Amer, B.Sc

CONTACT

[email protected]

+20 101 919 0709

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Cairo University

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
Dec 1, 2025
Registry last updated
Dec 1, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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