Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 45 and up

Developing surgical criteria for degenerative cervical myelopathy in Chinese patients

Official title: A Novel Surgical Criteria for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy in Chinese Ethnicity

Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06528730 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to find clear guidelines for when surgery is needed for older adults with degenerative cervical myelopathy to help them recover better.

More Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages45 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 1, 2023
Main results expectedJanuary 30, 2045
Study endsJuly 30, 2050
Registry record updatedMay 20, 2026
Trial IDNCT06528730 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are Chinese individuals over 45 years old with MRI-confirmed degenerative cervical myelopathy who can walk independently.

Probably not a fit

Patients with active spinal infections, previous spinal surgeries, or cognitive impairments 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 observational study focuses on degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), a common spinal condition affecting older adults, particularly those over 50. The research aims to establish objective surgical criteria by utilizing physical performance tests alongside MRI findings and clinical signs. By improving the accuracy of diagnosis and surgical decision-making, the study seeks to enhance recovery outcomes for patients with DCM. The study will involve evaluating candidates who meet specific inclusion criteria, ensuring a targeted approach to treatment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from degenerative cervical myelopathy.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on DCM, the development of specific surgical criteria based on objective functional assessments is a novel approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* MRI confirmed Chinese DCM surgical candidates
* All gender
* Older than 45 years old
* Independent walkers
* No previous cervical spinal surgery
* Cognitively capable of following instructions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active diagnosis of tuberculosis spine
* Lumbar spinal diseases
* Extra-pyramidal
* Cerebral or cerebellar disorders
* Peripheral neuropathies
* Previous spinal operations
* Unable to walk independently with or without aids
* Non-communicable subjects and cognitively incapable of expressing their symptoms clearly

Where it's running

  • The Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital at Sandy Bay
    Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Karlen Ka-pui Law, M. Phil — The University of Hong Kong
  • Study coordinator: Karlen Ka-pui Law, M. Phil
  • Email: karlenhk@connect.hku.hk
  • Phone: 29740531

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.