Assessing outcomes of cervical fusion with interfacet spacers

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Posterior Cervical Fusion Supplemented With Interfacet Spacers

Observational Ohio State University · NCT04041583

This study is testing how well a new type of spacer works in helping patients recover from neck surgery and if it can prevent complications like nerve problems.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorOhio State University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsmethotrexate
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT04041583 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective observational study evaluates fusion rates and cervical sagittal parameters in patients undergoing posterior cervical arthrodesis supplemented with interfacet spacers. Data will be collected from medical records for up to 730 days post-surgery, including demographic, clinical, surgical, and radiographic information. Additionally, patients will receive a non-standard CT scan two years after their surgery to assess long-term outcomes. The study aims to address complications associated with cervical fusion, such as foraminal stenosis and C5 palsy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with symptomatic multi-level degenerative spondylosis requiring posterior cervical arthrodesis.

Not a fit: Patients with traumatic injuries, severe co-morbidities, or those on medications that interfere with healing may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve surgical outcomes and reduce complications for patients undergoing cervical fusion.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of interfacet spacers is a novel approach in this context, similar studies have shown promising results in improving foraminal height and reducing complications.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥ 18 years old
* Symptomatic multi-level degenerative spondylosis necessitating posterior cervical arthrodesis in the subaxial cervicothoracic spine (between C2-upper thoracic).
* Surgery performed within the Department of Neurological Surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Traumatic injury
* Co-morbidity requiring medication use that may interfere with bone or soft tissue healing (i.e., high dose oral or parenteral glucocorticoids, immunosuppressive agents, methotrexate) - at discretion of investigator
* Severe co-morbidities (e.g., heart, respiratory, or renal disease)
* Recent (\<3 yrs) or co-incident spinal tumor or infection
* Concurrent involvement in another investigational drug or device study that could confound study data
* History of substance abuse (recreational drugs, prescription drugs or alcohol) that could interfere with protocol assessments and/or with the subject's ability to complete the protocol required follow-up
* Subjects who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the next 24 months
* Prisoner

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cervical Fusion
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.