A two centre randomised controlled trial to investigate the use of Botox A in upper limb spasticity in tetraplegia
Southampton University, Award: £12,700, Date of Award: 8 Mar 01
Botulinum Toxin A (BTXA), when injected intramuscularly prevents the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, causing loss of communication between nerve and muscle. This randomised controlled trial of people with cervical spinal cord injury will measure the effect of BTXA on function and spasticity. BTXA has been shown to bind with active motor units. By passively stretching the spastic muscle immediately after injection, the stretch sensitive (spastic) motor units will be activated but not those that are either paralysed or under normal voluntary control.
This study will test this novel technique to improve the reduction of spasticity without compromising muscle strength.
The project progressed very slowly due to a lack of suitable subjects. Subsequently, a different recruiting strategy was introduced but only 2 volunteers came forward. This project was unsuccessful.