Understanding the Nerve Composition in Low Back Facet Joints
Nerve Composition of Human Lumbar Dorsal Primary Rami and Its Medial Branch
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Aberdeen Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aberdeen, Scotland) |
| Trial ID | NCT05091112 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and over who are scheduled to undergo lumbar spinal surgery.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Aberdeen, Scotland
- 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
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.