NCT07167927 · University of Utah
Developing an Innovative Decision Support Tool for Pediatric Neuromuscular Scoliosis
What this study is about
The goal of this pilot hybrid type I effectiveness/implementation trial is to assess a newly developed decision support tool patients, parents, and providers to use during surgical treatment decision making for neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS). Results from this pilot will inform the design of a future larger effectiveness trial of the decision support tool.
View original scientific description
The goal of this pilot hybrid type I efficacy/implementation trial is to assess a newly developed decision support tool patients, parents, and providers to use during surgical treatment decision making for neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS). Results from this pilot will inform the design of a future larger effectiveness trial of the decision support tool. Participants will either receive usual care or receive the decision support tool. Researchers will assess the decision made, decision quality, individual affective, cognitive, and behavioral effects, and feasibility and acceptability of tool use. They will also collect potential barriers and facilitators to implementation and feedback about the tool and study design to maximize likelihood of successful deployment of the tool into clinical practice and inform the design of a future trial. The outcomes measures will be used to inform potential effect size estimates to inform a future trial.
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
- Parent-child dyads of children with neuromuscular scoliosis who speak English and Spanish.
- Child is between ages 8-21 years of age and they are coming into the pediatric orthopaedic surgery clinic for consultation about potential surgery for NMS.
- NMS is defined as having neurologic impairment (NI) and scoliosis using relevant ICD-9 or ICD-10 codes from Feudtner, et al. 2014 or Berry, et al. 2012. or a qualifying diagnosis per the Pediatric Spine Study Group definition of NMS.
- All pediatric orthopaedic surgeons and neurosurgeons who treat neuromuscular scoliosis at our study sites will be eligible participants.
Exclusion criteria
- Families whose child with NMS is less than 8 years of age at time of orthopaedic consultation because surgery at a younger age usually indicates an atypical case.
- Children with the diagnosis of Duchenne's or Becker's muscular dystrophy due to potential disease modifying therapies that may alter curve progression.
Where
- Los Angeles, California
- Salt Lake City, Utah
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 Dec 5, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations