NCT06661850 · Aclarion
Examination of Nociscan Impact on Discogenic Low Back Pain Surgical Outcomes
(CLARITY)
What this study is about
This study is looking into how safe and useful NOCISCAN is. NOCISCAN is a software as a Service (SaaS) tool that uses Magnetic Resonance (MR) spectroscopy. Nociscan (instead of 'It') leverages MRS to noninvasively help physicians distinguish between painful and nonpainful discs in the lumbar spine.
View original scientific description
This study is looking into how safe and useful NOCISCAN is. NOCISCAN is a software as a Service (SaaS) tool that uses Magnetic Resonance (MR) spectroscopy. Nociscan (instead of 'It') leverages MRS to noninvasively help physicians distinguish between painful and nonpainful discs in the lumbar spine. The randomized controlled trial will compare the blinded and unblinded cohorts and their corresponding surgical outcomes with the Nocigram reports, generated prior to treatment, for each patient.
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
- Subject is a skeletally mature male or female (non-pregnant) aged 18 to 70 years (inclusive);
- Subject plans to undergo surgical treatment of their discogenic back pain independent of this research protocol;
- Subject is to be treated with on-label use of FDA-cleared or FDA-approved devices independent of this research protocol;
- Subject has a diagnosis of discogenic back pain that requires treatment in up to two lumbar levels caused by degenerative disc disease (identified via MRI);
- Subject has a preoperative Oswestry Disability Questionnaire score ≥35 out of 100 points (35/100);
- Subject has a VAS back pain score of ≥40mm and that is greater than the worst VAS leg pain score;
- Subject has failed at least ≥ 6 months of non-operative treatment (for example: physical therapy, bed rest, anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy or home-directed lumbar exercise programs) OR requires urgent surgical treatment per the investigator;
- Subject has signed the IRB approved Informed Consent Form; and
- Subject is psychosocially, mentally and physically able and willing to fully comply with this protocol including adhering to follow-up schedule and requirements and filling out forms.
Exclusion criteria
- Subject has a primary diagnosis of spinal condition other than degenerative disc disease at the involved level (i.e., facet joint pain/SI pain);
- Subject has had prior lumbar back surgery or intradiscal treatments at any lumbar level (Note: diagnostic provocative or anesthetic discography are not excluded; micro-discectomy, decompression, or laminectomy patients greater than 6 months postop are not excluded);
- Surgery is planned for more than 2 lumbar levels.
- Subject has severe spinal canal stenosis as assessed by the Investigator;
- Subject has a motor strength deficit(s) in lower extremities
- Subject has a lumbar spine diagnosis, based on radiographic evidence, of clinically relevant lumbar vertebral abnormalities (except Modic end-plate changes, which are not excluded), including:
- Spondylolisthesis Grade 2 or greater (up to Grade 1 is accepted)
- Pars fracture, at the involved level
- Spondylolysis
- Lumbar scoliosis with a Cobb angle of greater than 15°
- Evidence of prior fracture or trauma to the L1, L2, L3, L4, or L5 levels in either compression or burst
- Lumbar kyphosis
- Subject has radiologic evidence of an uncontained lumbar disc herniation or lumbar disc extrusion.
- Subject is contraindicated for a standard lumbar MRI exam
- Women who are currently pregnant (or believe they may be at risk of being or becoming pregnant), or are breast feeding, during the study period when scans will be performed
- Subject is currently receiving worker's compensation or is involved in in any litigation for personal injury, medical negligence, trauma, or worker's compensation.
- Subject has a chronic disease (other than degenerative disc disease), chronic pain (other than discogenic low back pain), or psychological dysfunction, which may, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator, compromise a subject's ability to comply with study procedures, and/or may confound data
- Subject has a BMI \> 40
Where
- Beverly Hills, California
- La Jolla, California
- Los Angeles, California
- Miami, Florida
- Chicago, Illinois
- Park Ridge, Illinois
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Plano, Texas
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