Impact of pre-existing degeneration on outcomes after lumbar fusion surgery

Effect of Pre-existing Adjacent Segment Degeneration on Long-term Effectiveness After Lumbar Fusion Surgery: a Prospective Cohort Study

Peking University Third Hospital · NCT04467944

This study looks at how existing back problems affect recovery and quality of life for patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment210 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking University Third Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing Municipality)
Trial IDNCT04467944 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study enrolls patients requiring posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) for degenerative lumbar conditions. It focuses on the influence of pre-existing adjacent segment degeneration factors, such as degenerated discs and spinal canal stenosis, on long-term postoperative outcomes. The study aims to identify how these factors affect the risk of adjacent segment disease and the overall quality of life post-surgery. By analyzing these pre-existing conditions, the research seeks to improve surgical strategies and patient management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis who have not responded to at least eight weeks of conservative treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable adjacent segments, significant spinal imbalance, infections, tumors, or prior lumbar fusion surgeries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance postoperative outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored adjacent segment degeneration, this study's specific focus on asymptomatic pre-existing conditions represents a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A clear diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis, and surgical level of L4- S1 (The levels to be operated on were decided by matching the clinical symptomatology with the radiological findings of the spinal levels that needed decompression);
* Failed at least eight weeks conservative treatment;

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unstable factors (slip, rotation, lateral bending, etc.) in adjacent segment L3/4;
* Preoperative sagittal and coronal imbalance of the spine;
* Lumbar infection and/or tumor diseases;
* A previous history of lumbar fusion surgery.

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing Municipality

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, Degenerative Disc Disease, Degeneration Spine, Cerebrospinal fluid occlusion, Pre-existing degeneration, Spinal canal stenosis, Adjacent segment degeneration, Adjacent segment disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.