Comparing of Using Patient Imaging and Virtual Reality-based Simulation Prior to Lumbar Transforaminal Injections

Launched by KOREA UNIVERSITY ANAM HOSPITAL · Oct 13, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at whether using a 3D simulator based on CT images can help doctors perform lumbar transforaminal steroid injections more effectively. This procedure is often needed for patients suffering from lumbar radiculopathy, which is pain caused by nerve issues in the lower back. The goal is to see if having this special training can improve the success of the injections, especially in patients who are considered difficult to treat.

To be eligible for this study, patients should have specific issues like stenosis (narrowing) in their lower back and should be scheduled for this injection. They also need to have CT images showing that the injection might be challenging for the doctors. However, if a patient has had this injection before at the same center, has certain abnormal back structures, or does not agree to participate, they won't be included in the trial. If a patient qualifies, they can expect to be part of a study that aims to enhance the care they receive for their back pain.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with lumbar lateral recess or foraminal stenosis who are scheduled to undergo lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection.
• • Patients with lumbar CT images, where all four pain specialists in anesthesiology and pain medicine have determined that needle insertion through the transforaminal approach would be difficult.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients who have previously undergone transforaminal epidural steroid injections at this center.
• • Patients with abnormal lumbar anatomical structures or a history of lumbar surgery.
• • Patients who do not consent to participate in the study.