Effects of transcutaneous electrical stimulation on peripheral nerve regeneration after digital neurorrhaphy: A randomized clinical trial.

<ns7:p>Background Sensory recovery following digital nerve neurorrhaphy is often incomplete, and strategies to enhance regeneration remain under investigation. Low-frequency transcutaneous electrical stimulation has been proposed as a potential adjunctive therapy, but its efficacy in clinical settings is uncertain. Methods In this randomized controlled trial, 32 patients with isolated traumatic digital nerve injuries underwent surgical neurorrhaphy at a tertiary care hospital. Participants were randomly allocated to an intervention group (n = 16) or sham group (n = 16). The intervention consisted of a single postoperative session of square-pulsed, biphasic transcutaneous electrical stimulation at 20 Hz for 1 hour. The sham group received identical conditions without active stimulation. After stimulation, patients underwent physiotherapy sessions for three months. Sensory recovery was assessed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilament testing and two-point discrimination at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively. Results Both groups showed progressive sensory improvement throughout follow-up, approaching normal values at 3 months. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in any outcome measure. Confidence intervals for group comparisons overlapped, and no clinically meaningful differences were detected. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusions A single postoperative session of low-frequency transcutaneous electrical stimulation did not significantly enhance sensory recovery after digital nerve repair. Further research with varied stimulation protocols, repeated sessions, or extended follow-up may be warranted to clarify its potential role in peripheral nerve regeneration. Level of Evidence Therapeutic Level I.</ns7:p>