Spinal stenosis surgery showdown: simpler procedure may be just as effective

NCT ID NCT07670533

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares two surgical options for people who develop spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine) above a previous fusion site. One group gets decompression alone (removing tissue pressing on nerves), while the other gets decompression plus extended fusion (adding screws and bone graft). Researchers will track pain, disability, and quality of life over two years to see which approach works better. The trial aims to enroll 192 adults who have had a prior lumbar fusion and now have symptoms like leg pain or trouble walking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Decompression surgery alone or decompression with extended fusion (using pedicle screws and bone graft)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could show that a simpler surgery (decompression alone) works as well as a more complex one (with fusion) for relieving pain and disability in people with adjacent segment stenosis.
What could go wrong
This is a relatively small, early-stage trial (192 participants) comparing two surgical procedures, so results may not apply to all patients. Surgery carries risks like infection, nerve damage, or need for additional procedures.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Innlandet Hospital Gjøvik

    Gjøvik, Norway

  • Oslo University Hospital HF

    Oslo, Norway

  • University Hospital of North Norway

    Tromsø, Norway

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