Winchester

This research aims to evaluate the real-world use and effectiveness of artery embolization as a treatment for chronic pain in patients with osteoarthritis and localized pain. The study focuses on determining whether the procedure leads to reduced pain and improved quality of life, assessing its efficacy and validity for symptomatic relief. It observes patients who have undergone this treatment to better understand its impact on pain and medication use. During the outpatient artery embolization procedure, a physician inserts a small catheter into the artery supplying blood to the affected joint or painful area. Tiny particles are injected to reduce blood flow and inflammation, which may help decrease symptoms related to osteoarthritis, tendonitis, tenosynovitis, or injury. The study compares patients' pain levels, medication usage, and quality of life before and after the procedure using several clinical questionnaires and scales. Participants are monitored over time with assessments including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Index (WOMAC), and the EQ-5D-5L Quality of Life Questionnaire. Researchers track changes in pain, medication use, and quality of life up to 12 months after the procedure. The study follows patients from baseline through post-procedure follow-up to measure outcomes and overall improvement.

Researchers are evaluating the outcomes of two treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication (LSS with NC) in Medicare beneficiaries. This observational study compares the rates of surgical and minimally invasive interventions, as well as any harms, occurring within 24 months after receiving either the MILD procedure or Interspinous Process Decompression (IPD). The study uses Medicare claims data starting from patients treated on or after January 1, 2017, and continues enrollment until the sponsor stops it. The study groups include Medicare patients who underwent the MILD procedure, which involves a partial decompression performed under fluoroscopic image guidance through the removal of tissue and bone at the symptomatic spinal level. The control group consists of Medicare patients treated with Interspinous Process Decompression during the same enrollment period. Both groups are monitored for reoperation and harms for 24 months following their initial treatment. Participants are included based on Medicare claims with the study's NCT number, which automatically enrolls them without requiring prior consent. Researchers will analyze Medicare claims data to track surgical or minimally invasive interventions and any complications related to the initial procedure over two years. The study does not involve direct patient visits or interventions and is exempt from Institutional Review Board oversight. The total follow-up duration for outcome measurement is 24 months after the index procedure.