NCT06893406 · Indiana University
Cervical Myelopathy in Hip Fracture Patients
What this study is about
Recent evidence has demonstrated a high rate of undiagnosed cervical myelopathy in patients presenting with hip fractures from a ground level fall. Identification and treatment of cervical myelopathy can help prevent falls and future fragility fractures.
View original scientific description
Recent evidence has demonstrated a high rate of undiagnosed cervical myelopathy in patients presenting with hip fractures from a ground level fall. Identification and treatment of cervical myelopathy can help prevent falls and future fragility fractures. The purpose of this study is to screen ground level fall hip fracture patients for cervical myelopathy using a history, physical exam, and then offer an MRI if indicated.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Cervical MRI
Participants whose history and physical exam indicate signs or symptoms of cervical myelopathy will be scheduled for a cervical MRI.
OTHER
History & Physical Exam
A history and physical exam to evaluate for specific signs and symptoms of cervical myelopathy will be performed.
Primary outcome measures
Detection of cervical myelopathy on history and physical exam
Time frame: Once, at time of enrollment
The number of hip fracture participants whose history and physical exam positively demonstrate signs or symptoms of cervical myelopathy will be compared to the number of hip fracture participants whose history and physical exam do not demonstrate signs or symptoms of cervical myelopathy.
Diagnosis of cervical myelopathy on cervical MRI
Time frame: Once, prior to hospital discharge
Hip fracture participants whose history and physical exam positively demonstrate signs or symptoms of cervical myelopathy will be referred for a cervical MRI, to occur prior to hospital discharge. The number of participants whose cervical MRI confirms this diagnosis will be compared to the number of participants for whom cervical MRI does not confirm this diagnosis.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient admitted to Eskenazi, Methodist, or IU North hospital for a hip fracture (femoral neck, intertrochanteric, subtrochanteric, or pertrochanteric fracture) that was caused by a ground level fall.
Exclusion criteria
- Neurologic or cognitive disorder explaining the fall (dementia, Parkinson's disease, delirium, etc.)
- Syncopal fall or fall caused by stroke or a heart condition
Where
- Fishers, Indiana
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations