Spinal Cord Clinical Trials 2023

What Are Spinal Cord Clinical Trials?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the bundle of cells and nerves that sends and receives signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. It can be caused by direct injury to the spinal cord or damage to the tissue and bones (vertebrae) surrounding the spinal cord.

The damage can be permanent or temporary and can affect the body’s control of sensory, motor, and autonomic function below the level of injury. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of SCI in the U.S. in younger individuals, while falls are the leading cause of SCI for people over 65.

Current spinal cord clinical trials focus on identifying new drugs and management techniques, such as electrical stimulation, virtual gait system, etc., to simplify rehabilitation.

Why Is Spinal Cord Being Studied Through Clinical Trials?

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, as many as 450,000 people in the United States live with a spinal cord injury (SCI), in which over half of all SCI occurs in persons aged 16-30, most of whom are male (80%).

Spinal cord injuries can be classified into two types; complete and incomplete. An incomplete injury means the spinal cord can still transmit some messages to and from the brain to the rest of the body. In contrast, a complete injury means no nerve communication and motor function (voluntary movement) below the trauma site.

What Are The Types of Treatments Available For the Spinal Cord?

Currently, no treatment can reverse the damage of a spinal cord injury. However, recent research on prostheses and medications may promote the regeneration of nerve cells or improve the function of the nerves that remain after an SCI.

At the scene of the incident, quick medical attention is required to prevent further damage to the spinal cord and lead to paralysis. ERs need to immobilize the spine and use a rigid neck collar and carrying board. In contrast, rehabilitative care involves breathing assistance, pain medications, and physical therapies personalized based on the patient’s condition.

What Are Some Recent Breakthrough Clinical Trials For Spinal Cord?

2017: Assessment and management of acute spinal cord injury - this review outlined the pathophysiology, management, and long-term rehabilitation of individuals with traumatic SCI. It concluded that pharmacologic treatments, and cell-based therapies, such as neuroprotective and neuroregenerative strategies, will likely play a combinatorial role in the evolving management of SCI as the field continues to evolve.

2012: Effects Of Pharmacological Agents On Walking Function In People With SCI - One RCT provided Level 1 evidence that GM-1 ganglioside in combination with physical therapy improved motor scores, walking velocity, and distance better than placebo and physical therapy in persons with incomplete SCI. Multiple studies showed that clonidine and cyproheptadine might improve locomotor function and walking speed in severely impaired individuals with incomplete SCI.

Who Are Some Of The Key Opinion Leaders / Researchers / Institutions Conducting Spinal Cord Clinical Trial Research?

NeuRA

The Spinal Cord Injury Research Centre (SCIRC) at NeuRA was established in 2020. NeuRA has long been a world leader in neurostimulation research. They are currently exploring cutting-edge techniques, such as neurostimulation, acute-intermittent hypoxia, and inspiratory muscle training, which could help activate muscles in people with spinal cord injuries.