Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) to Control Chronic Low Back Pain
The specific side of the brain used for treating chronic pain is still unclear. The purpose of this research is to investigate if the use of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) targeted to a specific area of the brain may provide relief for chronic pain.
About
Chronic pain is a major public health problem. An estimated 100 million Americans have experienced chronic pain, producing significant economic and social burdens. Pharmacological treatments frequently require the use of opioids, which has resulted in a major epidemic of overuse in the United States. Neuromodulation with LIFU may provide a non-pharmacological treatment.
Protocol Description
The LIFU stimulation given in one of two areas of the brain, or a sham LIFU, will be assigned on chance using a randomization method. The chance of receiving LIFU in either of the two areas of the brain or the control or sham LIFU is one in three. Depending on the area of the brain assigned for stimulation, researchers may ask for additional imaging.
This study may involve one or two sessions. If needed, the first session is an imaging session. The second session is a stimulation session. The study contains 13 questionnaires; 11 of which will be completed at the first session. Three questionnaires will be done pre-LIFU and up to six questionnaires will be done post-LIFU. Pain scales will also be done at the post-operative appointment. Participants will be asked a series of questions related to their thoughts, attitudes, opinions, personal physical or mental health history, drug/alcohol use and physical symptoms.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- Age 18-100
- Diagnosis of failed back syndrome
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Chronic low back pain and/or chronic radicular pain
Exclusion Criteria
- Age <18 or >100
- Claustrophobic
- Contraindications for MRI: including pacemaker, aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, cochlear implants, metal in eyes or other implants
- Contraindications for CT: pregnancy
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Post limb injury
- Herpetic neuralgia
- Traumatic brain injuries (current)
Primary Investigator
Mark Witcher M.D., Ph.D., completed his medical education and training with a focus in neuroscience, as well as neurosurgery residency and fellowship in functional neurosurgery. He was fortunate to train under mentors focused on translational neuroscience—integrating neurosurgical research into clinical neurosurgical practice—and Carilion Clinic Neurosurgery provides an incredible opportunity to continue the tradition.
Dr. Witcher specializes in helping patients with functional neurosurgical issues. He has dedicated many years to studying electrical signaling in the brain to better understand the neuron behaviors that cause tremors, seizures, movement disorders, pain, weakness, sensory symptoms and blackouts.
Contact Information
Jordan Darden, Ph.D.
Director of Neurosurgery Research
