Predicting success of epidural injections for sciatica treatment
Official title: Prediction of Transforaminal Epidural Injection Success in Sciatica
Run by Leiden University Medical Center · NCT04540068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find out which factors can help predict how well epidural injections will work for people with sciatica caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 388 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Leiden University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Haarlem) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 15, 2020 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 12, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04540068 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults diagnosed with unilateral lumbar radiculopathy due to lumbar disc herniation or one-level spinal stenosis, confirmed by MRI.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe multisegmental spinal disease, active malignancy, or those who have had previous treatments for the current episode of lumbar radiculopathy 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 develop a predictive model for treatment success following transforaminal epidural injections (TEI) in patients with lumbar radiculopathy due to lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis. It will collect demographic, clinical, and radiological data to identify factors that correlate with positive treatment outcomes. Additionally, the study will assess the short-term efficacy of TEI based on pain relief, functionality, and patient-reported recovery scores, as well as the rates of subsequent treatments and surgeries. The findings could help tailor treatment plans for better patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved patient selection for TEI, enhancing treatment effectiveness for those suffering from sciatica.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of predicting treatment success based on clinical and radiological parameters is not widely established, similar studies have shown promise in improving treatment outcomes in related conditions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of unilateral lumbar radiculopathy secondary to LDH or one-level spinal stenosis * Diagnosis supported by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings * Scheduled appointment for TEI * Access to e-mail * Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of unilateral lumbar radiculopathy secondary to LDH or one-level spinal stenosis * Age under 18 years * Severe multisegmental spinal disease * Anatomical abnormalities that may complicate the procedure technically (e.g. severe scoliosis) * Active malignancy or infectious disease * Use of immunosuppressive drugs * Use of systemic corticosteroids in preceding 3 months * Previous treatment with TEI for current episode of lumbar radiculopathy * History of lower back surgery at the same lumbar level * Circumstances that prevent treatment with TEI (e.g. use of anticoagulants that cannot be temporarily discontinued, allergy against steroids or local anaesthetic) * Pregnancy * Major language barrier
Where it's running
-
Spaarne Gasthuis
Haarlem, Netherlands Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Carmen LA Vleggeert-Lankamp, MD, PhD — Leiden University Medical Centre / Spaarne Gasthuis
- Study coordinator: Eduard JA Verheijen, MD
- Email: e.j.a.verheijen@lumc.nl
- Phone: +3171526746
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Using regional anesthesia to reduce opioid use in spine surgery
This study is testing if a special pain management technique can help people having spine surgery use less opioid medication after their operation.
-
Effect of Irrigation Pressure on Postoperative Complications and Surgical Field Clarity in Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery
This study tests whether the height of the irrigation fluid bag and the direction of the surgical cut affect fluid pressure, visibility, and early recovery in adults undergoing unilateral biportal endoscopic spine surgery.
-
High-Intensity Laser Therapy vs Epidural Injection for Chronic Lumbar Disc Herniation Pain
This trial tests whether high-intensity laser therapy can relieve chronic low back and leg pain as well as a transforaminal epidural steroid injection in adults with lumbar disc herniation.
-
Impact of muscle degeneration on chronic low back pain after surgery
This study looks at how muscle loss affects ongoing back pain in people who have surgery for spine problems, to help improve recovery and predict results.
-
Mulligan leg raise vs spinal mobilization with leg movement for lumbar radiculopathy
This trial tests whether Mulligan leg raise traction or spinal mobilization with leg movement helps people with lumbar radiculopathy feel better.
-
Prone lumbar disc surgery: how breathing and brain oxygen relate
This study will observe whether changes in breathing mechanics during prone lumbar disc surgery relate to brain oxygen levels in adults.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.