High-resolution MRI of the cervical spine using 7 Tesla technology
High-resolution MRI (7 Tesla) of Foraminal Stenosis and Differentiation of the Degenerated Discovertebral Unit - Comparison with 3 Tesla MRI
This study is testing if a new type of high-resolution MRI can give better images of the neck for people with cervical back pain who need surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Balgrist University Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT04441554 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of high-resolution 7 Tesla MRI in imaging the cervical spine compared to the standard 3 Tesla MRI. The study focuses on patients with cervical back pain who are scheduled for surgery, allowing for better differentiation of osseous spurs from disc material and improved visualization of compressed nerves. By providing detailed anatomical images, the study seeks to enhance surgical planning and potentially reduce the need for additional CT scans. Participants will undergo 7 Tesla MRI scans to assess its diagnostic capabilities.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with cervical back pain and scheduled for surgery due to foraminal or central stenosis.
Not a fit: Patients who have had previous cervical spine surgery, have tumors, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have any contraindications for MRI will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes for patients with cervical spine conditions by providing clearer imaging.
How similar studies have performed: While high-resolution MRI techniques are being explored, this specific comparison of 7 Tesla versus 3 Tesla MRI for cervical spine imaging is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Informed consent as documented by signature (Appendix Informed Consent Form) * \>18 years old * Patients with cervical back pain (radiculopathy) and scheduled surgery for foraminal stenosis or central stenosis or cervical periradicular injection therapy (PRT) Exclusion Criteria: * previous surgery * tumor patients * pregnancy or breast feeding * any MRI contra-indications
Where this trial is running
Zurich, Canton of Zurich
- Balgrist University Hospital — Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.