Cervical Paraspinal Muscle Twitching and Cervical Facet Radiofrequency Ablation Outcomes
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The investigators aim to determine whether cervical paravertebral muscle twitching during motor testing as part of performing cervical RFAs is associated with a greater likelihood of treatment success, and greater magnitude or duration of analgesia. The investigators propose a straightforward grading scale based on visual and tactile information readily available during RFA procedures as part of routine practice (per radiofrequency electrode: 0 = no twitches palpated or observed; 1 = twitches palpated but not observed; 2 = twitches palpated and observed at 1-2 levels; 3= twitches palpated and observed at \>2 levels). If a higher weighted score (total score divided by number of radiofrequency lesion sites) correlates with a greater likelihood of treatment success, or magnitude or duration of analgesia following cervical RFA, cervical paraspinal muscle twitching may serve as a readily obtainable prognostic factor (marker) for effectiveness.
Research Team
Eric Wang, MD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo cervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with sensory and motor stimulation testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extended Follow-up
Participants continue to be monitored for long-term outcomes and effectiveness
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Johns Hopkins University
Lead Sponsor