Comparing local and MAC anesthesia for lumbar decompression surgery
Official title: Randomized Study Comparing Local/ MAC Anesthesia to General for 1-3 Level Lumbar Decompressions
Run by Stanford University · NCT04992572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether using local anesthesia with monitored care is as safe and effective as general anesthesia for patients having lumbar decompression surgery for spinal stenosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 40 Years to 95 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Redwood City, California and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2021 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | March 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04992572 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are patients aged 40-95 with lumbar stenosis who are appropriate for general anesthesia.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant nerve root retraction planned, previous fusion operations, or known hypersensitivity to the anesthetics used may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of using local anesthesia combined with monitored anesthesia care (MAC) compared to general anesthesia for patients undergoing lumbar decompression surgery due to spinal stenosis. A total of 100 patients aged 40 to 95 will be randomly assigned to receive either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with MAC during their procedure. The study aims to analyze patient outcomes, complications, and overall experiences associated with each anesthetic approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safer and more comfortable anesthesia option for patients undergoing lumbar decompression surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results with local anesthesia and MAC in similar surgical settings, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Patients with lumbar stenosis to be decompressed over 1-3 segments * Ages 40-95 * Appropriate for general anesthesia Exclusion Criteria: * Planned significant nerve root retraction * Previous fusion operation * Unable to comply with follow up * Patients with daily morphine equivalents or more 100mg * Patients with a known hypersensitivity to propofol or any of DIPRIVAN Injectable Emulsion components. * Patients with allergies to eggs, egg products, soybeans or soy products.
Where it's running
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Outpatient Surgery Center/Stanford Spine Clinic
Redwood City, California, United States Recruiting -
Stanford Outpatient surgery center
Redwood City, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Todd Alamin, MD — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Sarah Miller, MAS
- Email: sarahmi@stanford.edu
- Phone: 650-725-7984
Similar studies
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.