Understanding spinal cord changes in degenerative cervical myelopathy
Spinal cord structure-function relationships in degenerative cervical myelopathy
['FUNDING_R01'] · MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN · NIH-11144257
This project aims to find better ways to see spinal cord damage and measure function in older adults with a common neck condition called degenerative cervical myelopathy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11144257 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are working to improve how doctors understand a common neck condition called degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), which can cause spinal cord problems. Current imaging and tests don't always show the full picture of spinal cord damage or predict how well surgery might work. Our team has developed new MRI techniques, like filtered diffusion weighted imaging (fDWI) and metal-suppression multi-spectral diffusion weighted imaging (MSI-DWI), to better detect nerve damage and assess the spinal cord after surgery. We are also developing new ways to measure subtle changes in movement and sensation. The goal is to combine these advanced imaging and functional tests to provide more accurate diagnoses and better predict surgical outcomes for people with DCM.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for older adults experiencing spinal cord dysfunction due to degenerative cervical myelopathy, especially those considering or having undergone surgery.
Not a fit: Patients without degenerative cervical myelopathy or those with spinal cord issues from other causes may not directly benefit from this specific imaging and assessment approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more precise diagnoses and better predictions of surgical success for individuals with degenerative cervical myelopathy, potentially guiding more effective treatment decisions.
How similar studies have performed: While conventional MRI is standard, this project introduces novel advanced diffusion-weighted imaging techniques and functional assessments specifically tailored to overcome limitations in current DCM diagnosis and prognosis.
Where this research is happening
MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES
- MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN — MILWAUKEE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VEDANTAM, ADITYA — MEDICAL COLLEGE OF WISCONSIN
- Study coordinator: VEDANTAM, ADITYA
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.