About this trial

This trial will test whether the drug ibudilast improves recovery in individuals undergoing spinal decompression surgery for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM). DCM is a degenerative arthritic condition causing loss of nerve function due to pressure on the spinal cord. Previous studies indicate that ibudilast is safe and may protect spinal cord nerves and promote their recovery. If included in the trial, participants with DCM who are planning to have decompression surgery will be randomly assigned to take either oral ibudilast or a placebo drug beginning up to 10 weeks prior to surgery and continuing for up to 24 weeks after surgery. Researchers will measure changes in motor and sensory function in the upper and lower extremities, bladder emptying function, and neck pain. Questionnaires on health and well-being will also be given. These assessments will be performed periodically before and up to 12 months after surgery. Pre-operative and 6-month post-operative MRI scans of the neck will also be performed.