Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 to 80

Examining MRI changes in spinal cord disorders

Official title: MRI-changes in Morphometry and Cerebro Spinale Fluid (CSF) Flow in Spinal Cord Disorders

Run by University of Zurich · NCT02170155 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how changes in the spinal cord and fluid around it can help us understand spinal cord disorders better and improve early diagnosis and treatment for patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment350 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Zurich
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 2012
Main results expectedDecember 2026
Study endsDecember 2026
Registry record updatedDecember 22, 2025
Trial IDNCT02170155 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-80 with cervical spinal injuries.

Probably not a fit

Patients with other neurological or psychiatric disorders, seizures, MRI incompatibility, or those who are pregnant 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 aims to understand the onset and progression of spinal cord disorders by analyzing structural and dynamic changes in the spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using MRI. It will explore the relationships between MRI parameters, clinical disability, and electrophysiology. Additionally, in some patients undergoing decompressive surgery, CSF pressure will be measured perioperatively to investigate correlations between functional limitations, structural changes, and spinal pressure. The goal is to facilitate early diagnosis and therapy to prevent disability progression.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early diagnosis and treatment strategies for spinal cord disorders.

How similar studies have gone: While similar studies have explored MRI changes in spinal cord disorders, this specific approach focusing on CSF flow and pressure in relation to structural changes is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Cervical injury
* Informed consent
* Age 18-80
* CSM

Exclusion Criteria:

* No other neurologic disorder and psychiatric disorder
* Seizure
* MRI incompatibility
* Pregnancy

Where it's running

  • University of Zurich, Balgrist University Hospital
    Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland
    Recruiting

Study contacts

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.