Using spinal cord stimulation to help people with spinal cord injuries cough
Multi-Center Clinical Trial of Spinal Cord Stimulation to Restore Cough
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10707886
This study is looking at how spinal cord stimulation can help people with neck and upper back injuries regain their ability to cough, which can make it easier for them to clear their airways and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10707886 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of spinal cord stimulation to restore the ability to cough in individuals with cervical and high thoracic spinal cord injuries. The approach involves implanting electrodes that stimulate the muscles responsible for coughing, which can significantly improve airway clearance and reduce respiratory infections. Previous pilot trials have shown promising results, indicating that this method can activate the necessary muscles effectively. The study aims to further validate these findings in a larger, multi-center clinical trial.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cervical or high thoracic spinal cord injuries who struggle with coughing and respiratory complications.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries at lower thoracic levels or those without significant respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could greatly enhance respiratory health and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries by restoring their ability to cough effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot trials have shown success with similar approaches, indicating that spinal cord stimulation can effectively restore cough in patients with spinal cord injuries.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DIMARCO, ANTHONY F. — CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DIMARCO, ANTHONY F.
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.
Conditions: Airway infections