NCT06570577 · Stony Brook University
Opioid Sparing Effect of an ISP Nerve Block on Post-Op Pain Control in Posterior Cervical Spine Surgery
What this study is about
Participants who have a surgical procedure called Posterior Cervical (neck) Spine Surgery will normally need pain medication to relieve post operative pain. This usually includes opioid medications. In this study, the consented participant may receive a nerve block procedure, in addition to the pain relieving medication. There is a fifty-fifty chance to receive the nerve block.
View original scientific description
Participants who have a surgical procedure called Posterior Cervical (neck) Spine Surgery will normally need pain medication to relieve post operative pain. This usually includes opioid medications. In this study, the consented participant may receive a nerve block procedure, in addition to the pain relieving medication. There is a fifty-fifty chance to receive the nerve block. The goal is to see if the nerve block group needs less opioid medication, has lower pain scores and is discharged from the hospital sooner.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Inter-semispinalis Plane Block
A nerve block targeting the dorsal rami of the cervical spinal nerves can help alleviate postoperative incisional pain.
DRUG
Opioids
Routine Pain Management
Primary outcome measures
Lower opioid use
Time frame: 48 hours post Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) arrival time
Comparison of the reduction in Morphine Milligram Equivalent (MME) dose of opioids consumed between the control group versus the nerve block group.
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
- Having Posterior Cervical Spine Surgery from C2 - C7, which may extend to the upper thoracic vertebrae, inclusive to T3.
- Capacity to provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Fusion and decompression due to trauma
- Emergent procedures
- Patient is on a medication-assisted treatment, e.g., buprenorphine, naltrexone or methadone.
- There is an infection near or in the area of neck where the block will be placed.
- The patient is having a complicated surgery or a revision surgery
- Female patient with a positive pregnancy test on the day of surgery (hospital standard-of-care).
- Patient has Diabetes
- Patients who have had a prior adverse reaction to bupivacaine or dexamethasone
- Patients with Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency or congenital or idiopathic methemoglobinemia
Where
- Stony Brook, New York
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 Apr 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations