Epidural Steroids for Back Pain
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests if applying a steroid during back surgery helps patients recover faster and need less pain medication. It focuses on patients having a specific type of back surgery and looks at their recovery and pain levels.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on chronic steroid therapy or immunosuppressants, you may not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Depo-Medrol 40Mg/Ml Suspension for Injection in treating back pain?
Research shows that patients receiving Depo-Medrol injections for low back pain reported significant pain and disability reduction after 4 weeks compared to those receiving another steroid, betamethasone. Additionally, Depo-Medrol was found to provide greater and earlier improvement in patients with chronic sciatica compared to another treatment.12345
Is it safe to use epidural steroids like Depo-Medrol for back pain?
How does the drug used in epidural steroid injections for back pain differ from other treatments?
Epidural steroid injections, specifically using methylprednisolone (Depo-Medrol), are unique because they deliver the medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord, providing targeted anti-inflammatory effects. This method can offer significant pain relief and improved function, especially in the short term, compared to other steroids like betamethasone, which may not be as effective when administered epidurally.12348
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-85 undergoing a specific back surgery called lumbar laminectomy. It's not for those who don't speak English, have had daily opioid use in the last six months, need additional spine procedures, have chronic pain conditions, uncontrolled diabetes (A1C > 6.5), weakened immune systems, prostate issues causing urinary problems or are allergic to Depo-Medrol and steroids.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 1-2 level lumbar laminectomy with either 40 mg Depo-Medrol or 1 mL of sterile normal saline applied to the surgical wound
Post-operative Monitoring
Participants are assessed daily for two weeks post-operatively for opioid usage and other outcomes
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness, including pain and return to work, at 1 and 3 months post-operation
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Depo-Medrol 40Mg/Ml Suspension for Injection
- Placebo
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Hospital for Special Surgery, New York
Lead Sponsor