Stimulation Evoked Primary Afferent Depolarization to Modulate Sensory Transmission to Spinal Motoneurons and the Sensory Cortex

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how cervical (neck) nerve roots can be stimulated during surgery to observe reflex responses in spinal motor neurons. This investigation focuses on understanding how sensory pathways in the spine and brain are affected, especially in neurological conditions like stroke, which can change spinal sensory circuits and cause movement difficulties. Participants will undergo electrical stimulation of the dorsal cervical spinal nerve roots during cervical spinal surgery. This is done using an FDA-cleared bipolar neural stimulation electrode, which is commonly used to monitor nerve function during such procedures. Muscle activity will be recorded with intramuscular electromyography (EMGs), and sensory responses in the brain will be measured using intra-operative EEGs to assess how sensory information is transmitted. During the study, participants will have motor and sensory responses measured in real time while the nerve roots are stimulated. The primary focus is on spinal circuit excitability and sensory transmission to the brain, assessed on the day of surgery. The study includes detailed monitoring of muscle and brain activity to better understand sensory modulation. The total participation time aligns with the surgical procedure and intra-operative assessments.

Stimulation-Based Modulation of Spinal and Cortical Sensory Pathways