Salt Water Gargling on Swallowing Following ACDF
Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · Jun 24, 2024
Trial Information
Current as of June 26, 2025
Not yet recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is looking at whether gargling with warm salt water can help reduce difficulty swallowing after a specific type of neck surgery called anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). The study will involve healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 80 who are having this surgery. Researchers want to find out if using saltwater can make it easier for patients to swallow after their operation.
Participants will be divided into two groups. One group will gargle with warm salt water after surgery, while the other group will not. Both groups will fill out questionnaires at different times before and after their surgery to track any changes in their swallowing difficulties. To qualify for the trial, patients must be having a multi-level ACDF surgery and able to speak either English or Spanish. Those with certain pre-existing swallowing issues or other specific health problems may not be eligible. Overall, this study aims to gather information that could help improve recovery for patients after neck surgery.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • Patients ≥ 18 years of age
- • Patients undergoing a multi-level (2-, 3-, or 4-level) ACDF procedure
- • Single-approach (anterior only) ACDF - English or Spanish-speaking patients
- • Undergoing treatment at Keck Medical Center of USC
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • Patients ≤ 18 years of age
- • Patients undergoing any revision ACDF procedure
- • Patients undergoing ACDF with combined approaches (i.e. anterior + posterior)
- • Patients with spinal pathologies or deformities that are non-degenerative or idiopathic (i.e. trauma, infection, malignancy, or tumor)
- • Patients with a prior diagnosis related to swallowing issues (i.e. esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, Sjogren syndrome, multiple sclerosis (MS), or laryngitis)
- • Patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score ≥ 4
About University Of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC) is a prestigious research institution located in Los Angeles, California, known for its commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in various fields, including medicine and health sciences. As a clinical trial sponsor, USC leverages its extensive resources, interdisciplinary expertise, and state-of-the-art facilities to conduct cutting-edge research aimed at improving patient outcomes and public health. The university fosters collaboration among its diverse faculty and students, ensuring a dynamic environment for the development and implementation of clinical studies that adhere to the highest ethical and scientific standards. Through its clinical trials, USC aims to contribute to the advancement of medical science and the translation of research findings into practical applications that benefit communities locally and globally.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Los Angeles, California, United States
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Ram K Alluri, M.D.
Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported