Understanding the Nerve Composition in Low Back Facet Joints
Official title: Nerve Composition of Human Lumbar Dorsal Primary Rami and Its Medial Branch
Run by University of Aberdeen · NCT05091112 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at the nerves in the lower back's facet joints during spinal surgeries to see what they're made of and how they are structured.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Aberdeen Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aberdeen, Scotland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 8, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2024 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2024 |
| Registry record updated | December 24, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT05091112 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and over who are scheduled to undergo lumbar spinal surgery.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who may not benefit from this study include those under 18 years old, individuals with a history of previous spinal surgery, or those unable to provide informed consent.
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 investigate the composition of the nerves that supply the facet joints in the lower back. During scheduled spinal surgeries, the lumbar dorsal rami and their medial branches will be harvested and analyzed. The harvested nerves will undergo fixation, washing, and dissection to prepare smaller sections for histological examination. The study will focus on assessing the overall cross-sectional area and the presence of connective tissue sheaths using light microscopy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of nerve composition in lumbar facet arthrosis, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While this study focuses on a specific aspect of nerve composition, similar studies have shown promise in understanding nerve structures in other contexts, suggesting potential for valuable insights.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be aged 18 or over * be able to give informed consent * scheduled to undergo lumbar spinal surgery Exclusion Criteria: * Children under 18 years old * Vulnerable adults * Adults with incapacity * Inability to provide informed consent * History of previous spinal surgery * history of previous RF ablation for low back pain * has COVID-19 or displaying symptoms of COVID-19
Where it's running
-
Woodend Hospital
Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Saravanakumar Kanakarajan, MD FRCA — NHS Grampian
- Study coordinator: Saravanakumar Kanakarajan, MD FRCA
- Email: saravanakumark@abdn.ac.uk
- Phone: 00 44 1224 553237
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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.