NCT07789288 · Georgetown University
Hard Cervical Collar Use Following Posterior Cervical Fusion
What this study is about
Postoperative immobilization with a hard cervical collar following posterior cervical fusion remains common practice despite limited evidence demonstrating improved clinical outcomes. This is a forward-looking, multi-site, randomly assigned clinical trial evaluating postoperative hard cervical collar use following posterior cervical fusion for degenerative cervical spine disease.
View original scientific description
Postoperative immobilization with a hard cervical collar following posterior cervical fusion remains common practice despite limited evidence demonstrating improved clinical outcomes. This is a prospective, multi-site, randomized clinical trial evaluating postoperative hard cervical collar use following posterior cervical fusion for degenerative cervical spine disease. Eligible patients will be randomized to either wear an FDA-approved hard cervical collar (Aspen Cervical Collar, Aspen Vista Cervical Collar, or Miami J Cervical Collar) for 6 weeks after surgery or receive no cervical collar. Patient-reported outcomes will be collected before surgery and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. The primary outcome is radiographic fusion success at 12 months. Secondary outcomes include neck disability, neck and arm pain, quality of life, patient satisfaction, wound infection, adverse events, and other postoperative complications. Radiographic fusion will be evaluated by blinded radiologists. The results of this study will help determine whether routine postoperative cervical collar use improves outcomes following posterior cervical fusion.
Interventions
DEVICE
Hard Cervical Collar
Participants randomized to this arm will wear a hard cervical collar continuously for 6 weeks following posterior cervical fusion. The collar may be briefly removed for hygiene purposes. FDA-approved cervical collars (Aspen Cervical Collar, Aspen Vista Cervical Collar, or Miami J Cervical Collar) will be used according to institutional practice.
Primary outcome measures
Radiographic fusion success
Time frame: 3, 6, 12 months after surgery
Fusion success following posterior cervical fusion as determined by blinded radiographic evaluation
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
- Adults aged 18 years or older
- Diagnosis of degenerative disk disease (DDD)
- Ability to provide informed consent
- Patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy, cervical deformity, or pseudoarthrosis
Exclusion criteria
- \- Patients with trauma, tumors, or infections
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
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 Aug 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations