WithdrawnNot Applicable

High Dose Steroids for Dysphagia

Stopped: Not enough patients recruted

Canada0Started 2015-03-24

Plain-language summary

Few existing data currently indicates that anti-inflammatory drugs could help diminish the local cervical inflammation tough to cause the dysphagia, hoarseness and dyspnea after an anterior surgical approach to the spine. This study aims to evaluate the effect of high dose of steroids on dysphagia after an anterior cervical spine procedure. Patients subjected to a cervical spine surgery through an anterior approach will be randomized to a treatment group receiving 3 doses of IV dexamethasone (decadron) and a placebo group receiving saline. Outcome will be measured with dysphagia scales, modified barium swallow and rhino-pharyngo-laryngoscopy, all done pre and post-operatively. Secondary outcomes involve neurological condition, pain and fusion rate.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Anterior cervical spine surgery * Elective surgery Exclusion Criteria: * Takes steroids for any reason * Pre-existing condition leading to dysphagia

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.