MS Study Enrollment

[goldfinch]

NPR did a story about this recently:

http://www.npr.org/2011/01/31/133247...-and-treatment

Per the story, the procedure is somewhat controversial. I don't link to it to discourage anybody from entering into the study or to otherwise express an opinion as to the procedure (especially since I know next to nothing about MS). I just thought the story was worth reading/listening to.

Oh no! My first post and it doesn't have to do with biking. Sorry!

Anyway, this procedure (jugular vein balloon angioplasty or stent) isn't just somewhat controversial it is very controversial and there are substantial and many unknown risks. Venous angioplasty isn't a standard procedure for anything so it is hard to evaluate risk. Nevertheless, there have been people who have died as a result of these procedures, including during a study conducted in the US. The underlying theoretical basis for the procedure is iffy. The chance of a placebo response is extremely high. Please do not rush to join any study in a foreign country and really do your homework. There is way too much hype, emotion and anecdotes on the internet regarding this procedure. Talk to real medical professionals who understand evidence based medicine. Really educate yourself on placebo response issues, especially for MS treatments. Keep in mind that the original work done by Zamboni that started this whole thing has a variety of methodological issues. You should know what they are and be able to articulate what the research actually shows in contrast to the hype before deciding whether you want to put yourself at risk.

Sorry for the lecture.

[itself]

goldfinch,

Thanks for the information. The gal here in Scottsdale that was "cured" posted on facebook. It's been crazy with calls at the Institute.

It's a tough disease, and your points are well taken about the risks. And it needs to be well thought out. Very interesting that the placebo affect is as strong as it is.

Thanks again for your post, not a lecture at all!