Evaluating imaging techniques for cervical radiculopathy

Cervical Radiculopathy Imaging Using MR Neurography With Electrodiagnostic Correlation

Observational Hospital for Special Surgery, New York · NCT06971575

This study is testing how well MRI and nerve tests can help doctors understand and treat people with neck pain caused by nerve issues.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorHospital for Special Surgery, New York Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06971575 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project investigates patients with cervical radiculopathy by assessing the diagnostic and prognostic value of magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) and electrodiagnostic studies. The study aims to determine how these imaging techniques, along with clinical history and physical examination findings, correlate with treatment responses. By analyzing data from these methods, the research seeks to enhance understanding of cervical radiculopathy and improve patient outcomes. The study is observational and focuses on patients experiencing acute or subacute symptoms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-60 with acute or subacute unilateral cervical radiculopathy symptoms and clinical weakness.

Not a fit: Patients with prior cervical surgery, previous episodes of cervical radiculopathy, or other significant neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment strategies for patients with cervical radiculopathy.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of MRN and electrodiagnostic studies in this context may be novel, similar imaging approaches have shown promise in diagnosing and managing radiculopathy in other studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients presenting with symptoms compatible with acute or subacute unilateral (one-sided) cervical radiculopathy and signs of clinical weakness
* 18-60 years old at the time of evaluation
* Symptom onset of 2 to 12 weeks leading up to baseline visit
* Diagnosis of unilateral cervical radiculopathy, with or without spinal cord compression, based on signs and symptoms, physical exam and supported by MRI findings of radiculopathy (as evidenced by foraminal stenosis/narrowing) based on standard-of-care cervical spine MRI
* Patients who have undergone or have planned electrodiagnostic testing at HSS prior to surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior cervical surgery or instrumentation
* Those who have had a prior episode of cervical radiculopathy
* History of peripheral neuropathy or another acute or chronic neurodegenerative condition
* History of stroke, cerebellar disease, or central nervous system disease
* Contraindications to undergoing a standard MRI examination (e.g., pregnancy)
* Patients presenting with bilateral cervical radiculopathy

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 Radiculopathy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.