Improving pain management after spine surgery to reduce opioid use and side effects

Reducing Opioid Use and Adverse Effects through Proactive Precision Pain Management Following Spine Surgery

NIH-funded research Opalgenix, INC. · NIH-10485408

This study is looking to improve pain relief for people having lumbar spinal surgery by using a personalized plan that takes into account their unique genetics and health history, helping doctors choose the best pain management options while reducing the need for opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOpalgenix, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10485408 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing pain management strategies for patients undergoing lumbar spinal surgery by utilizing a personalized approach based on genetic and clinical factors. The study aims to develop a system called GPS-Opioid, which will guide physicians in prescribing the most effective pain relief methods while minimizing opioid use and its associated risks. By analyzing individual patient data, the research seeks to predict pain outcomes and tailor pain management plans accordingly, ultimately improving recovery experiences for patients. The approach combines advanced algorithms with clinical markers to optimize treatment protocols.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are scheduled to undergo lumbar spinal surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing lumbar spinal surgery or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce opioid dependency and improve pain management outcomes for patients after spine surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using genetic factors to guide pain management, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.