Conditions: Spinal Cord Injury Autonomic Dysreflexia Orthostatic Hypotension Baroreceptor Integrity Sympathetic Integrity Vagal Integrity Hypotension Cerebral Blood Flow Blood Pressure Venous Occlusion Plethysmography
Allocation: RANDOMIZED | Intervention model: PARALLEL
Enrollment: 66
Healthy volunteers: yes

Brief summary:
While treatment strategies for OH have been identified for use in persons with acute SCI, the field of SCI medicine lacks a gold standard for treatment thresholds and well-defined outcome parameters. Comprehensively documenting the impact of orthostatic hypotension (OH), regardless of symptoms, during acute rehabilitation and identifying the effects of two different treatment approaches on therapy participation and adherence to an intended rehabilitation plan could have a significant impact on clinical practice in the acute rehabilitation setting following SCI.

Detailed description:
Baseline Testing: Subjects will visit the testing laboratory on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit for baseline data collection, prior to initiation of the treatment protocol. Upon arrival, subjects will be placed in the supine position on an adjustable surface for instrumentation, which will be conducted in a quiet, dimly lit, thermo-neutral testing environment. After a 20-minute period of quiet rest, a 10-minute sample of supine heart rate (HR), respiratory rate, BP and CBF velocity data will be collected. Venous occlusion plethysmography (Vop) will be collected in the supine position for two 5-minute periods. After the supine data collection, subjects will be passively moved into the seated position, with the knees and hips at 90°, for the 10-minute seated data collection period. Subjects will be asked to complete two surveys related to AD and OH symptomology. Finally, subjects will be fitted with a 24-hour HR and BP monitor and will be asked to go about their normal routine. A record of all daily activities including rehabilitation, medications, eating and sleep/wake times will be logged. This testing session should take approximately 1 hour.

Daily Testing: Every day supine and seated BP measurements will be performed at least three times per day. These BP assessments will be recorded in the supine and seated positions in the subject's room by a patient care associate who is blind to the study arm allocation. For every scheduled physical and occupational therapy session, the treating therapist will be asked to complete a brief 6 question survey to document if that session was altered, disrupted, or missed due to hypotension (Therapist Reported Version). The subject will also be asked to complete a brief survey to determine if from their perspective the session was altered, disrupted or missed due to hypotension (Subject Reported Version). In addition, every day a co-investigator and the attending physician for that subject will complete an EMR review of queried BP values within the previous 24 hours, symptoms of low BP, adverse events related to high or low BP, and will review (and act upon for the usual care arm) the protocol treatment decision tree.

Weekly Testing: At weekly intervals of between 6 and 8 days, subjects will be asked to visit the testing laboratory on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit. Procedures for the weekly testing sessions will be the same as for the Baseline Testing. The 24-hour BP assessment will be conducted twice weekly.

Discharge Testing: At discharge subjects will undergo similar testing as described during the Baseline and Weekly Testing with the addition of the Patient Global Impression of Change survey, which will be administered by the Mount Sinai Site Research Assistant.

Arms:
arm 1: Individuals randomized to the usual care group will receive BP management according to the usual care in current practice in the SCI Rehabilitation Unit.

Will receive treatment only if they experience symptoms that are associated with low BP (dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, loss of consciousness, etc.).

Treatment to lessen or eliminate these symptoms of low blood pressure will be guided by the attending physician and can include physical countermeasures to increase blood pressure (abdominal binders, comperssion stockings, etc.) and/or midodrine . arm 2: Individuals assigned to the BP threshold treatment group will receive BP management, regardless of symptoms, to maintain systolic BP between 111-135 mmHg for males and 101-135 mmHg for females for the duration of their in-patient hospital stay.

This treatment will be started based on your low BP, regardless of if you experience symptoms that are associated with low BP (dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, loss of consciousness, etc.). Before you start on any medication you will receive physical countermeasures to increase blood pressure (abdominal binders, comperssion stockings, etc.).

If your blood pressure remains low after using these countermeasures you will begin to take midodrine 3 times a day as described in the intervention section. The dosage will increase and be stopped once until your seated SBP is between 111-135 mmHg.

Interventions: intervention 1: Midodrine Hydrochloride intervention 2: Midodrine Hydrochloride
Intervention descriptions: intervention 1: Level 1: Compression stockings, abdominal binder Level 2: Midodrine 5mg 2x/d Level 3: Midodrine 10mg 2x/d Level 4: Midodrine 15mg 2x/d Level 5: Midodrine 20mg 2x/d Level 6 Midodrine 20mg 2x/d and Fludrocortisone 0.1mg 2x/d Level 7 Midodrine 20mg 2x/d and Fludrocortisone 0.2mg 2x/d intervention 2: Level 1: Compression stockings, abdominal binder Level 2: Midodrine 5mg 2x/d Level 3: Midodrine 10mg 2x/d Level 4: Midodrine 15mg 2x/d Level 5: Midodrine 20mg 2x/d Level 6 Midodrine 20mg 2x/d and Fludrocortisone 0.1mg 2x/d Level 7 Midodrine 20mg 2x/d and Fludrocortisone 0.2mg 2x/d

Protocol document:
Prot_SAP_ICF_000.pdf: 
    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  1 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
INTRODUCTION
You are being asked to participate in a research study that is supported by the James J. Peters Veterans 
Affairs Medical Center (JJPVAMC). This research study is being performed at the Icahn School of 
Medicine at Mount Sinai, an affiliate of the JJPVAMC.  Before you decide to take part in this study, it is 
important for you to know why the research is being done and what it will involve.  This includes any 
potential risks to you, as well as any potential benefits you might receive.   
Please read the information below closely, and discuss it with your family and friends if you wish.  You 
can also ask one of the study staff members if there is anything that is not clear to you or if you would like 
more details.  Please take your time to decide if you want to participate.  If you do decide to take part in 
this study, your signature on this consent form will show that you received all of the information below, 
and that you were able to discuss any questions and concerns you had with a member of the study team.
1.
Purpose of study and how long it will last:
You are being asked to participate in the study because you have a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and 
are between the ages of 18 and 89 years of age.  The purpose of this research study is to compare usual 
care treatment of symptomatic hypotension (dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, passing-out, 
etc.) to treatment initiated based on low blood pressure (BP) readings (BP<110 mmHg for males and <100 
mmHg for females), regardless of symptoms, during acute rehabilitation following your SCI. The 
medication (midodrine) has been approved for experimental use in this study by the FDA for phase 4 
clinical trial. The results will help us to understand if we can minimize or eliminate disruptions to the 
prescribed rehabilitation program due to low BP during inpatient rehabilitation and explore the safety of 
initiating treatment for low BP before symptoms arise. If you choose to participate in this study, you 
understand that there is an approximated time commitment of 6 weeks. It is also required that you to sign 
both a VA informed consent and Mount Sinai School of Medicine informed consent. A copy of these 
consent forms will be given to you and a copy will be kept by the research team. This study is sponsored 
and funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research and 
the Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical 
Consequences of SCI. 
Participants:
You will be one of about 80 participants in this study participating at Icahn School of Medicine at 
Mount Sinai’s Inpatient SCI Rehabilitation Unit. 
Inclusions:

You are between the age of 18-89 years of age

You experienced traumatic SCI within the past 30 days
1
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  2 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 

Any level of injury 

non-ventilator dependent 

AIS grade A, B, C, D

You are an inpatient for the acute SCI rehabilitation program

You have evidence of hypotension (systolic BP<110 mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for 
females) measured while sitting for at least two separate measurements
Exclusions: If any of the following statements apply to you, you need only tell the researcher that one or 
more of the statements pertain to you. To ensure your privacy and confidentiality, you need not reveal 
which of the statements apply to you. If you choose to tell the investigator which of the 
statements apply to you, the information will be kept strictly confidential. Please inform the 
researcher if any of the following statements apply to you.

You have insufficient English speaking or reading ability to provide informed consent or complete 
assessments in English

You have contraindications to the use of midodrine

You are pregnant

You are hypertensive in sitting or supine position (systolic BP >140mmHg)
In addition, you may be excluded from participation if you have insufficient mental capacity to 
independently provide informed consent as determined by clinical staff during your admission to the SCI 
rehabilitation unit at Mount Sinai.
2.
Description of the Study Including Procedures to be Used:
If you consent to participate in this research study, you will remain in the inpatient unit for acute SCI 
rehabilitation therapy at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai located on Floor 2 of the Klingenstein 
Clinical Center (KCC building). You will be randomized to receive either the usual care treatment or the 
BP threshold treatment, and you have an equal chance of being assigned to the usual care or the BP 
threshold treatment groups.  The usual care treatment group will receive BP management according to the 
current practice on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit. The treatment group will receive BP management, 
regardless of symptoms, to maintain systolic BP (SBP) between 111-135 mmHg for males and 101-135 
mmHg for females. For both the usual care and the BP threshold treatment groups, the treatment plan will 
be driven by a protocol programmed into your Electronic Medical Records (EMR) with strict guidelines 
for moving from level to level. The protocol will be reviewed daily by a co-investigator who will complete 
a daily decision tree survey within your medical record.  Your doctor will continue to following your 
2
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  3 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
medical care closely and will initiate any necessary clinical intervention in the event of an incidental 
finding.  
Treatment Group - if you are randomly assigned to the treatment group you will receive a 
medication that will increase your BP (midodrine hydrochloride).  This treatment will be started 
based on your low BP, regardless of if you experience symptoms that are associated with low BP 
(dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, loss of consciousness, etc.).  Before you start 
on any medication you will receive physical countermeasures to increase BP (abdominal binders, 
compression stockings, etc.).  If your BP remains low after using these countermeasures you will 
begin to take midodrine 2 or 3 times a day, as appropriate for your BP needs.  We will start you 
at a low dose of midodrine (5 mg) and will monitor your BP several times a day for several days.  
If your BP remains low (SBP<110 mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for females) we will 
increase the dose to 10 mg and again monitor your BP several times a day for several days.  If 
your BP still remains low we will increase the dose to 15 mg and again monitor your BP several 
times a day for several days.  We will repeat this procedure until your seated SBP is between 
111-135 mmHg. If your blood pressure is not well controlled (seated SBP between 111-135 
mmHg) on midodrine or fludrocortisone, you will be prescribed a different medication, droxidopa, 
to increase your blood pressure. You would be started on this medication at a dose of 100mg 1 
or 2 or 3 times a day as appropriate for your blood pressure needs.
 
Usual Care Group - if you are randomly assigned to the usual care group you will receive treatment only 
if you experience symptoms that are associated with low BP (dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry 
vision, loss of consciousness, etc.).  Treatment to lessen or eliminate these symptoms of low BP will be 
guided by your doctors and can include physical countermeasures to increase BP (abdominal binders, 
comperssion stockings, etc.) and/or medications (midodrine, fludrocortisone, and/or droxidopa).  
Testing Protocol - Prior to entering the treatment protocol, you will be asked to visit the testing laboratory 
located on the Inpatient SCI Rehabilitation Unit at Mount Sinai. You will be transferred to a laboratory 
bed and will remain in the supine position for instrumentation. Three sticky electrodes will be placed on 
your chest and abdomen area. A BP cuff will be placed around your upper right arm and a finger cuff on 
the left middle or ring finger. A small Doppler ultrasound probe with ultrasound gel will placed over your 
left temple to measure cerebral blood flow (CBF). After a period of 20 minutes of quiet rest, a 10-minute 
sample of supine heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR), BP and CBF data will be collected. Venous 
Occlusion Plethysmography (VOP) will be collected while you remain in the supine position for two 5-
minute recordings. After the supine data collection, you will be passively moved into a seated position, 
with the knees and hips at 90° for another 10-minute seated HR, RR, BP and CBF data collection. You 
3
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  4 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
will then be asked to complete two surveys, one related to autonomic dysreflexia (AD) symptoms and 
another related to orthostatic hypotension (OH) symptoms. In addition to the weekly autonomic functional 
assessments, participants will have beat-to-beat BP assessments (via the finometer) performed during at 
least once a week while the participant simultaneously undergoes routine clinical bowel evacuation 
(standard of care) as well as bladder evacuations (standard of care as well). In addition, if a urodynamic 
study is clinically indicated and performed/overseen on the unit by the attending physician, an assessment 
of beat-to-beat finger BP will be simultaneously recorded. The beat-to-beat BP data will be recorded 
continuously for the entire period of bowel management and bladder management and/or testing. This 
assessment of beat-to-beat finger BP during bowel and bladder management and/or testing is optional 
based on subjects’ willingness. Participants will also complete weekly surveys of autonomic sensations 
and control of bladder and bowel function. Finally you will be instrumented with a 24-hour Holter 
monitor, which will record HR and BP every 20-minutes during the daytime and every 30-minutes at night 
while you go about your normal daily routine. A log will be kept to record your daily activities, 
rehabilitation, medications, and eating and sleep/wake times. These procedures will be repeated at weekly 
intervals (6-8 days apart) and just prior to your discharge.
The table below depicts all of the study procedures that will be performed by VA staff and the time-points 
each will be recorded. 
Admission 
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Discharge
Seated HR & BP
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Supine  HR & BP
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cerebral Blood Flow
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Venous occlusion plethysmography
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
24-hour monitoring HR BP
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bowel/Bladder BP
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
AD Symptoms Survey
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
OH Symptoms Survey
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Adverse Events
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Heart Rate (HR) & Respiration Rate (RR) - will be monitored using 3 electrodes (small sticky pads) 
placed on your chest and abdomen.  Your HR and RR will be monitored and recorded at admission, 
discharge and during each weekly study visits.  At each visit your HR and RR will be continuously 
monitored for 10 minutes while you are lying down in bed (supine) and for 10 minutes while seated.   
4
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  5 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Blood Pressure (BP) - will be monitored and recorded from your right upper arm (brachial) using an 
automated BP cuff and vital sign monitor. Your brachial BP will be monitored and recorded 1 time per 
minute for 10 minutes while you are supine and for 10 minutes while you are seated.  In addition, BP will 
be monitored on a beat-to-beat basis at your left middle or ring finger for 10 minutes while you are supine 
and for 10 minutes while you are seated.  These BP assessments will be recorded at admission, discharge, 
during each weekly study visit, and weekly during routine clinical bowel and bladder evacuation.    
Cerebral Blood Flow (CBF) - will be monitored and recorded using a small Doppler ultrasound probe (a 
noninvasive test that measures brain blood flow) with ultrasound gel that will be placed over your left 
temple to measure blood flow velocity through your middle cerebral artery. The Doppler probe will be 
held in place with a head harness, which will be tightened so that the probe doesn’t move around during 
testing. CBF velocity will be monitored and recorded for 10 minutes while you are supine and for 10 
minutes while you are seated during the admission visit, at weekly intervals and at discharge. 
Venous Occlusion Plethysmography (VOP) – will be collected while you remain in the supine position, 
with your right leg propped up on a foam block. A strain gauge (small rubber band) will be placed around 
your calf at the widest point. A BP cuff will be placed on your ankle and another BP cuff will be placed on 
the thigh. The ankle cuff will be inflated to about 200 mmHg while the thigh cuff will be inflated to about 
50 mmHg. The strain gauge on your calf will record the accumulation of blood and the increase in volume 
of your lower leg (calf). Once a plateau has been reached (about 3-4 minutes in), the thigh cuff will be 
deflated, and 60 seconds later the ankle cuff will be released. The procedure will be done twice at 
admission, each weekly visit and at discharge. 
24-Hour Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Monitor - Electrodes will be placed on your left and right 
shoulder, left and right chest, and one on your abdomen and a cuff will be placed on your upper left or 
right arm for 24-hour HR & BP data collection. 24-hour HR and BP data will be collected during your 
usual daily activities at admission, one-time per week and just prior to discharge. 
Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) Symptoms Survey – will be collected at each study visit.  AD is a condition 
where BP increases higher than normal, usually because of a painful or non-painful stimulus below the 
level of your SCI. Some of the most common causes of AD relate to bowel or bladder fullness, tight 
clothing, or pressure from being in one position for too long, but there may be other causes that we are not 
aware of.  You will be asked to complete a 9 question AD symptoms survey once a week during the 
weekly testing visit, which will be used to determine your experience with AD over the past 7-days. This 
survey contains questions related to symptoms you may have experienced, information about your BP at 
that time, possible causes of the AD, and how frequent these symptoms occur. 
5
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  6 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Orthostatic Hypotension (OH) Symptoms Survey - will be collected at each study visit.  OH is a condition 
where your BP falls when you change from supine to upright standing or seated position. Symptoms may 
range from dizziness and light headedness to fatigue and nausea to loss in consciousness. You will be 
asked to complete a 9 question OH symptoms survey at admission, once a week during your weekly 
testing visit, and at discharge, which will be used to determine your experience with OH over the past 7-
days. This survey contains questions related to symptoms you may have experienced, information about 
your BP at that time, and how frequent these symptoms occur. 
3.
Description of any Procedures that may Result in Discomfort or Inconvenience:
You have been told that the study described above may involve the following risks and/or discomforts:
Heart rate and breathing rate: You may experience some discomfort when the electrodes are removed 
from your skin and some skin irritation at the site of electrode placement. 
Blood pressure: You may experience some discomfort when the BP cuffs around your upper arm and 
finger are inflated.
Brain blood flow: You may experience some discomfort when the head harness is used to secure the 
ultrasound probe to your head for assessment of brain blood flow.
Venous occlusion plethysmography: You may experience some discomfort from the ankle cuff when it 
is inflated above your systolic BP. 
Passive positional change: You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness or nauseous following a 
passive change from the supine to seated position. If you feel uncomfortable we may stop the test at any 
time. 
Since this research may have unknown effects on an unborn child and should not be done during 
pregnancy, it is necessary for a pregnancy test to be done first.  To your knowledge you are not pregnant at 
the present time. You also agree to avoid becoming pregnant (use contraceptives, take precautions against 
becoming pregnant, etc.) during this study. 
For Males, you should know that your female partner should not become pregnant, once you agree to 
participate in this study. Therefore take all precautions to prevent pregnancy.
4.
Expected Risks of Study:
6
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  7 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Heart rate and breathing rate: You may experience some skin irritation when the electrodes are 
removed. 
Blood pressure: You may experience some tingling or numbing sensation when the BP cuff around your 
upper arm and finger are inflated. 
Midodrine:
More frequent or worsening of AD symptoms.
Sustained (30+ minutes) elevation in BP (>160/100 mmHg). Clinical staff may move you to the 
upright seated position, may loosen any tight clothing or braces that you are wearing and may check 
and empty your bladder and bowel. If your BP remains high for more than 30 minutes you may be 
provided with a medication to lower your pressure. The medication of choice will be a nitropaste 
(Nitroglycerin Ointment, 2%) placed one inch on your forehead. 
Risks of midodrine (≤8% likely) include blurred vision, cardiac awareness (irregular heartbeat or 
shortness of breath), headache, pounding in the ears, increased dizziness, slow pulse, fainting, tingling 
and itching of the scalp, goosebumps, chills, constipation, superficial venous thrombosis (a blood clot 
in a vein), vascular ischemia (blockage of blood supply in an artery), urinary retention, the urge to 
urinate, and temporary muscle spasms
Fludrocortisone:
o     More frequent or worsening of AD symptoms.
o     Sustained (30+ minutes) elevation in blood pressure (>160/100 mmHg). Clinical staff 
may move you to the upright seated position, may loosen any tight clothing or braces 
that you are wearing and may check and empty your bladder and bowel. If your blood 
pressure remains high for more than 30 minutes you may be provided with a medication 
to lower your pressure. The medication of choice will be a nitropaste (Nitroglycerin 
Ointment, 2%) placed one inch on your forehead.
o
  Risks of fludrocortisone include hypertension, swelling, heart enlargement or heart 
failure,   and potassium loss. Much less likely risks include muscle weakness, peptic 
ulcer, impaired wound healing, seizure, menstrual irregularities, cataracts, elevated blood 
sugar, allergic skin rash
Nitropaste:
o    Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet, burning, crawling, 
itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles,” tingling feelings, difficult or labored 
breathing, feeling faint, dizzy, lightheadedness, feeling of warmth or heat, flushing or 
redness of the skin, especially on the face and neck, headache, rapid weight gain, 
sweating, tightness in the chest, tingling of the hands or feet or unusual weight gain or 
loss. Rare: Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms, dark urine, fever, pale skin, rapid 
heart rate, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual tiredness or weakness.
7
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  8 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Droxidopa:
o    More frequent or worsening of AD symptoms.o   Sustained (30+ minutes) elevation in 
blood pressure (>160/100 mmHg). Clinical staff may move subject to the upright seated 
position, may loosen any tight clothing or braces that the subject is wearing and may 
check and empty the subject's bladder and bowel. If subject's blood pressure remains 
high for more than 30 minutes the subject may be provided with a medication to lower 
his/her pressure. The medication of choice will be a nitropaste (Nitroglycerin Ointment, 
2%) placed one inch on the subject's forehead
o    Droxidopa risks (≤8% likely) include: slow or fast heartbeat, pounding in the ears, low 
back or side pain, nervousness, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, headache, bladder 
pain,  difficulty, painful,  and/or burning  urination.  Also,  an  urge  to  urinate  or urine 
retention.
Since  his research may have unknown effects on an unborn child and should not be done during 
pregnancy, it is necessary for a pregnancy test to be done first.  To your knowledge you are not 
pregnant at the present time. You also agree to avoid becoming pregnant (use contraceptives, take 
precautions against becoming pregnant, etc.) during this study. 
As with any research, there may be unforeseen risks and discomforts. A medical doctor associated 
with the study will be available to treat any medical emergency that may develop. 
5.
Expected Benefits of the Study
There may be no direct benefit to you from this study, but any information that the researchers get from 
this study may help others.
6.
Other Treatments Available:
Participation in the study is voluntary and your alternative is to not participate and seek clinical advice from 
your doctor.
7.
Use of Research Results:
The researchers will let you and your physician know of any significant new findings made during this 
study which may affect your willingness to participate. All research material generated from the study will 
remain in the possession of Dr. Jill M. Wecht and her study team at the JJP VAMC. Your medical 
records will be maintained according to this medical center’s requirements and all electronic and hardcopy. 
8
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  9 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
All electronic and hardcopy Research Records will be retained according to National Archives and Records 
Administration, Records Schedule RCS-10-1.
Your research records will be maintained according to the requirements of the JJPVAMC as follows:
Data Collection, Storage, and Transfer: 

Your coded electronic data will be collected on VA computers that are not connected to the 
internet and will be transferred to a VA issued encrypted thumb drive for transfer to a secure 
password-protected VA environment. 

Your coded electronic data without your name, or other identifying information, will be stored on 
secured networks, behind electronic security systems, in access-restricted folders.

Your coded electronic data will be stored on a secure VA network.

Hard copies of your data will be stored in a locked file cabinet behind 2 locked doors at the VA 
and the keys will be kept with VA staff associated with the study. 

Data are transferred to the VA in the following manner

Hard copies will be hand delivered to the VA by VA staff.

Electronic copies will be sent over PKI-encrypted VA email, if necessary, to be stored on 
the VA intranet behind the VA firewall.
Access to the research materials generated from the study will be restricted to Dr. Jill M. Wecht and 
her study team. If results of this study are reported in medical journals or at meetings, you will not be 
identified by name, by recognizable photograph, or by any other means without your specific consent.  
No information by which you can be identified will be released or published unless
 
   required
 
   by
   law
 
 . In 
order to comply with federal regulations, research records identifying you may be reviewed by the 
following:
Authorized representatives of the JJPVAMC (e.g. Institutional Review Board, Research Compliance 
Officer) and VA, including the Office of Research Oversight (ORO), Federal Agencies such as the 
Government Accounting Office (GAO), VA Office of Inspector General (OIG), Food and Drug 
Administration (FDA) and Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) may have access to your 
research records. Because this research involves articles regulated by the FDA, the FDA may choose to 
inspect and copy medical or research records that identify individual research subjects.
If this study was initiated on or after March 7, 2012, a description of this clinical trial will be available on 
http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov, as required by U.S. Law.  This web site will include a summary of the 
results.  You can search this web site at any time.
8.
Special Circumstances:
9
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  10 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Because you are participating in a study at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, your private health 
information (PHI) from this study will not be placed in the VA patient record system. 
9.
Compensation and/or Treatment in the Event of Injury:
In case of an emergency, necessary medical treatment to a research subject injured by participation in a 
research project approved will be provided at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and conducted under the 
supervision of one or more MSSM employees.  Further information about compensation and medical 
treatment may be obtained from the medical administration service at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. 
10.
Voluntary Participation:
You are not required to take part in this study; your participation is entirely voluntary. You can refuse to 
participate in this study or withdraw your participation in this study after you consent without penalty or 
loss of VA or other benefits to which you are entitled.
11.
Termination of Participation:
You can refuse to participate now or you can withdraw from the study at any time after giving your 
consent. This will not interfere with your regular medical treatment, if you are a patient. The investigator 
also has the right to withdraw you from the study at any time for reasons including, but not limited to, 
medical concerns (your health and safety are in jeopardy with continued participation in the study), non-
compliance (you miss several scheduled appointments without notification) and protocol deviations 
(exclusion/inclusion criteria change and you are no longer eligible to participate). 
12.
Costs and Reimbursements:
As a veteran or non-veteran, you will not be charged for any treatments or procedures that are part of this 
study. For veterans who are required to pay co-payments for medical care and services provided by VA, 
these co-payments will continue to apply for medical care and services provided by VA that are not part 
of this study. 
You will not receive any compensation for your participation in this study.
13.
Contact Person(s):
To obtain answers to questions about the research, report or seek treatment for a research-related injury, 
or to voice concerns or complaints about the research contact the following: 

During the Day: Dr. Jill M. Wecht (718) 584-9000 ext. 3122

After Hours: Dr. Jill M. Wecht (201) 390-0487 or Dr. William A. Bauman at (914) 329-4772
10
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  11 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
I understand that should I wish to discuss my participation in this study with any other doctor or 
layperson, I can contact Mary Sano, Ph.D., Associate Chief of Staff (ACOS) R&D Program at the JJP 
VAMC by requesting an appointment at (718) 741-4228 hospital extension 4228, first floor in the 
research building, Room 1F-01 If I have questions, concerns, and/or complaints or to offer input.
RESEARCH SUBJECTS' RIGHTS:  I have read or have had read to me all of the above.  Dr. 
Jill Wecht or her delegate has explained the study to me and answered all of my questions. I have 
been told of the risks or discomforts and possible benefits of the study. I have been told of other 
choices of treatment available to me.
I understand that I do not have to take part in this study, and my refusal to participate will involve 
no penalty or loss of rights to which I am entitled. I may withdraw from this study at any time 
without penalty or loss of VA or other benefits to which I am entitled.
11
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  12 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
The results of this study may be published, but my records will not be revealed unless required by law. 
This study has been explained to me. I have had a chance to ask questions. I voluntarily consent to 
participate in this study.  I will receive a signed copy of this consent form.
_____________________________
__________________________________
Subject Signature
Date
Time
_____________________________
________________________
_________
Person Obtaining Informed Consent
Signature of Person
Date
(Print Name)                                               
Obtaining Informed Consent
(Investigator or Delegate as 
Indicated on Assurance Page)
VERBAL CONSENT IF THE PARTICIPANT LACKS UPPER LIMB FUNCTION TO 
COMFORTABLY WRITE
________________________________ is unable to sign the consent form due to impaired arm 
function. I certify that I have carefully explained the purpose and nature of this research to him/her in 
appropriate language and he/she has had an opportunity to discuss it with me in detail. I have 
answered all of his/her questions and he/she has consented to participate in this research. I, therefore, 
am signing the consent form to document that he/she has given his/her consent to participate in this 
research study.
12
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


    VA RESEARCH CONSENT FORM
 (to be used at Mount Sinai School of Medicine)
Version Date: March 4, 2021
Page:  13 of 13
Subject Name: 
Informed Consent Date: 
Principal Investigators:
Dr. Jill M. Wecht, EdD
VAMC:  James J Peters
Protocol #: WEC-16-050
Title of Study: Treatment of Post-SCI Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Study of Usual 
Care versus Anti-hypotension Therapy 
Person Obtaining Consent:
Name: ________________________________
Signature: ______________________________
Date: ________________________
Witness Name: __________________________
Signature: ______________________________
Date: ______________________
13
  VA          
Department of Veterans 
Affairs
 
JJPVAMC IRB
Effective Date:
April 8, 2021


 
B. SITE-SPECIFIC RESEARCH PROJECT: TREATMENT OF POST-SCI HYPOTENSION: A 
RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED STUDY OF USUAL CARE VERSUS ANTI-HYPOTENSION 
THERAPY  
1. IMPORTANCE OF THE PROBLEM 
 
 
Shrinking lengths of stay for acute inpatient rehabilitation make taking advantage of the available time 
allowed for acute rehabilitation essential. From 1973 to 2014 the median length of stay for an admission to 
acute rehabilitation for traumatic SCI decreased from 98 to 36 days within the SCI Model Systems. Given this 
decreased length of stay for acute rehabilitation, there is a critical need for persons with SCI to optimize their 
time in therapy. However, on average patients with SCI during acute rehabilitation miss about 2.5 hours (17%) 
of scheduled therapy time per week of which a ‘medical’ complication was the most commonly reported 
cause.17 Furthermore, it is appreciated that during the scheduled therapy time individuals need to be able to 
participate in the prescribed therapeutic plan to the best of their ability in order to maximize functional 
outcomes. An alteration or disruption in the optimal therapy plan, while not identified as missed therapy, has 
the potential to adversely impact outcomes, which may be proportional to the amount of the therapy plan that 
was affected.  
One prevalent medical complication that can limit optimal participation in therapy is hypotension, 
particularly OH, which is frequently encountered especially among people with high cord lesions, but may also 
hinder rehabilitation efforts in individuals with low cord lesions. OH is defined as a decrease in systolic BP of 
20mmHg or more, or a reduction in diastolic blood pressure of 10mmHg or more, upon changing body position 
from a supine position to an upright posture, regardless of the presence of symptoms.18 In 2000, Illman et al. 
reported nearly three quarters of persons with acute SCI (levels of injury ranging from C2-L3) demonstrated 
OH during acute physical therapy rehabilitation.19 It is important to note that symptoms of OH may or may not 
relate to orthostatic BP changes20 and, while nearly half (43%) of the orthostatic episodes adversely impacted 
the prescribed therapy plans during acute rehabilitation following SCI, not all patients were symptomatic.19 
Another investigation reported a prevalence of OH in persons with high thoracic and cervical lesions of 74% 
within the first days and weeks after injury with systolic BP being significantly lower in those with cervical 
(107±2 mmHg) as compared to high thoracic (125±7 mmHg) lesions.21   


On the SCI Rehabilitation Unit, we have similarly found that more than half of individuals with traumatic SCI 
are impacted by symptomatic hypotension. We recently conducted a survey of newly injured patients over a 
two-week interval and noted that 10 out of 18 persons with traumatic SCI experienced some interruption (21-
100%) in their rehabilitation plan due to symptomatic hypotension. Specific examples of how this manifested 
included individuals ‘not being able to sit fully upright in a wheelchair’, ‘not being able to work on seated 
balance due to an inability to tolerate upright postures’, ‘not being able to work on transfers due to an inability 
to sit upright’, and ‘not being able to work on standing or walking due to an inability to tolerate standing’. While 
the individuals did not miss therapy per se their therapeutic plan was restricted to activities that could be 
performed in a reclined position or for only short periods in a sitting or standing position. There were several 
instances where the plan was changed from being functionally oriented to one consisting of non-functional 
activities where symptomatic OH would not pose a significant barrier such as strengthening and stretching 
exercises performed in the supine position on a mat. 
While treatment strategies for OH have been identified for use in persons with acute SCI, the field of SCI 
medicine lacks a gold standard for treatment thresholds and well-defined outcome parameters. 
Comprehensively documenting the impact of OH during acute rehabilitation and identifying the effects of two 
different treatment approaches on therapy participation and adherence to an intended rehabilitation plan could 
have a significant impact on clinical practice in the acute rehabilitation setting following SCI.  
2. REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE 
 
OH following SCI is well described in the literature and is known to be more common in persons with 
tetraplegia than in persons with paraplegia.19,21-23 Not only is this condition evident in the acute period, it 
persists in a significant number of individuals for many years.23,24  Decentralized adrenergic vascular tone25 
and significantly reduced resting norepinephrine level26 is believed to be responsible for the loss of reflex 
vasoconstriction and hypotension following SCI.22,23,25 Further, pooling of blood in the lower extremities in 
conjunction with hypotension and OH may result in a reduction in CBF, which then presents as the signs and 
symptoms of OH.22,23,25 However, it has been documented that the absence of symptoms, does not mean that 
OH cannot have negative effects on CBF velocity, therapy tolerance and medical status. In fact we recently 
reported significantly reduced seated CBF in hypotensive individuals with chronic SCI compared to relatively 
hypotensive age-matched non-SCI control cohort.27,28 


We recently conducted a retrospective review of all traumatic SCI admissions to the SCI Rehabilitation Unit 
for 2014-2015. We reviewed the medical record for blood pressure (BP) values that reflected hypotension, 
which was defined by the World Health Organization in 1978 as a systolic BP ≤ 110 mmHg for males & ≤ 100 
mmHg for females, regardless of diastolic BP.29 The findings suggest that hypotension was present in 34% in 
individuals with cervical SCI, compared to 22% in those with high thoracic (T1-T5) and 15% of those with low 
thoracic (T6 and below) lesions. It is important to emphasize that these data were collected in the supine 
position and reflect hypotension. It is highly likely that the prevalence of hypotension and OH will be 
substantially increased in the seated position, as previously described.19 
Although most hypotensive individuals with SCI appear to be asymptomatic there is ample evidence in the 
general medical literature supporting associations between chronic asymptomatic hypotension and adverse 
changes in mood,30-33 cognitive function34-37 and increased morbidity and mortality;38-40 findings which may apply 
to the Individuals with SCI and may adversely affect therapy adherence. Confirmatory evidence carried out in our 
laboratory suggests that asymptomatic individuals with chronic SCI who met the World Health Organization 
definition of hypotension perform significantly more poorly on cognitive tasks of working memory and attention 
processing compared to normotensive individuals with SCI.6 It is important to note that all study subjects with SCI 
were chronically injured (2-39 years) and the two SCI groups were matched for positive history of traumatic brain 
injury.6 Evidence of causality between hypotension and cognitive dysfunction has been documented in the 
general medical literature with findings of improved cognitive performance following acute increases in BP with 
midodrine.41-43 The association between hypotension and cognitive impairment is thought to reflect alterations in 
CBF velocity because individuals with chronic hypotension have substantially reduced CBF velocity compared to 
matched normotensive controls.44,45 Increases in CBF velocity secondary to increase in BP has been reported in 
the general medical literature41 and we found a similar association in hypotensive individuals with SCI following 
administration of midodrine and L-NAME.28,46   
The deleterious effects of hypotension and OH, not only impacts cognition, but also in predisposes 
individuals to a greater risk of developing pressure ulcers. This increased risk is the result of reduced tissue 
perfusion and an increased dependence on the renin-angiotensin system that results from renal hypoperfusion. 
The current usual care approach in the management of OH is to implement therapeutic interventions in stages, 
dependent upon the severity of symptoms, and not on BP measurements in the absence of symptoms.23,47  


Most commonly both non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions are utilized in the treatment of 
symptomatic OH in those with SCI. Non-pharmacologic options include compression stockings, abdominal 
binders, liberalization of salt intake, and electrical stimulation, while the two most frequently used 
pharmacologic options are midodrine and fludrocortisone.  However, there is little evidence to support the wide 
spread use of these options to treat hypotension and OH in acute rehabilitation following SCI. Of the existing 
studies there is level II evidence that suggests midodrine at high doses (≥10 mg) and functional electrical 
stimulation can be helpful in treating OH post-SCI.23,47,48 There are very few, underpowered studies in SCI on 
any of the aforementioned non-pharmaceutical interventions. Thus the standard of care to treat hypotension 
and OH following SCI is based on clinical judgment rather than on evidenced-based medicine as there is no 
established guideline for standard medication usage or titration for the treatment of hypotension and OH during 
acute rehabilitation following SCI. 
Midodrine hydrochloride [d,1-alpha-(2’5’-dimethoxyphenyl)-β-(glycinamidoethanol); C12H19N2O4Cl] is an 
alpha agonist which, when taken orally, binds to the alpha receptor on the vascular walls, mimicking the 
actions of norepinephrine by causing vasoconstriction and increasing BP. Because the increased prevalence 
of hypotension and OH in persons with SCI is thought to reflect low adrenergic tone, midodrine has been most 
commonly recommended for clinical use in individuals with symptomatic hypotension.23,47,48 Midodrine is a pro-
drug that undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis in the systemic circulation to form the active metabolite 
desglymidodrine, and is nearly completely absorbed after oral administration,49 even in models of neurogenic 
OH in which gastroparesis is common.50 It has been shown that midodrine does not cross the blood brain 
barrier and, therefore, is not associated with central nervous system effects.51 A few relatively small multi-
center, randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials have been conducted to determine the efficacy of 
midodrine to treat symptomatic OH in various models of autonomic failure, and compared to placebo, 10 mg 
midodrine increased standing BP and improved symptoms of dizziness and light-headedness during 
standing.50,52-54  Of note, energy level was improved and symptoms of depression were reduced in individuals 
randomized to midodrine compared to placebo.52  
Available data on the effects of midodrine on BP in individuals with SCI include three case reports,47,48,55 
one randomized placebo-controlled trial in 4 individuals with tetraplegia,56 a dose titration, open label trial, in 10 
individuals with tetraplegia,57 and 4 publications describing the effects of midodrine (10 mg) on BP and 


CBF.28,46,58,59 The three case studies in acute SCI report improved orthostatic BP responses and significant 
lessening of the symptoms of syncope.47,48,55 The laboratory assessments provide preliminary evidence on the 
efficacy of midodrine to raise BP,46,56,57 and we reported improved orthostatic BP responses to head-up tilt that 
corresponded to an attenuated fall in CBF following administration of midodrine in hypotensive subjects with 
tetraplegia.46,57 In addition, Phillips et al. reported that increases in BP following midodrine administration were 
associated with improved cognitive performance in individuals with SCI above T6.59 While midodrine appears 
to be effective at increasing BP in the Individuals with SCI, the question remains as to the clinical significance 
of sustained elevation in BP as well as the safety of this agent in treatment of asymptomatic hypotension and 
OH during acute rehabilitation following SCI. In addition, data are lacking which describe the effects of 
midodrine on BP changes during autonomic dysreflexia (AD) in the acute rehabilitation setting. However, 
several studies report comparable increases in BP during ejaculation with and without midodrine in males with 
chronic SCI.60-62 It should be noted that subjects reported increased severity of headaches and negative AD 
symptoms with midodrine compared to ejaculation alone.60  
The available data describing the effect of midodrine on BP in individuals with SCI  have reported 
responses to a single dose during a laboratory or clinical visit.  To our knowledge there has not been an 
intervention trial, documenting changes in BP in response to midodrine over the course of several weeks 
following clinically relevant 2 or 3 times per day administration. Furthermore, most of the available data 
characterizes a handful of brachial BP values in the seated position following midodrine, and none have 
documented the effect of midodrine over the course of a normal day in ether the acute in-patient or chronic out-
patient individuals with SCI. However, BP instability is well described in persons with SCI,63 particularly in 
those with high cord lesions, and while midodrine may be safe and effective following a single dose in the 
seated position, effects on BP during activities of daily living, such as transfers, bladder voiding and bowel 
evacuation, over the course of 24-hours has not been described. Therefore documenting the effects of 
midodrine over the course of several representative 24-hour periods during acute rehabilitation following SCI 
will provide unprecedented evidence of the safety and efficacy of this agent in support of wide-spread 
applicability.  
3. OBJECTIVE AND SPECIFIC AIMS 
 
 
The objective of this proof-of-concept safety and efficacy trial is to compare anti-hypotension treatment 


initiated based upon a BP threshold, regardless of symptoms, to usual care treatment of symptomatic 
hypotension during acute rehabilitation following SCI.  
Primary Hypothesis: SCI inpatients in the BP threshold treatment group (pharmacological hypotension 
management initiated when systolic BP<110 mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for females) will have less 
interrupted therapy time than the usual care control group (i.e., those treated for symptomatic hypotension 
only).    
Aim 1: To compare BP threshold treatment and control groups for differences in therapy time spent actively 
involved in the prescribed rehabilitation program during the inpatient rehabilitation stay (efficacy #1) 
 
Secondary Hypothesis: SCI inpatients in the treatment condition (hypotension management with SBP<110 
mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for females) will have less cumulative time spent outside the normotensive 
range than the usual care control condition (i.e., those treated symptomatically). 
Aim 2: To compare BP threshold treatment and control groups for differences in cumulative time spent outside 
of normotensive range, based on twice-weekly 24-hour BP observations: 
Aim 2A: Compare time spent at a systolic BP > 140 mmHg (safety #1) 
Aim 2B: Compare time spent at a systolic BP < 110 mmHg for males and < 100 mmHg for females (efficacy 
#2) 
 
Exploratory Hypothesis 1: SCI inpatients in the BP threshold treatment group (pharmacological hypotension 
management initiated when systolic BP<110 mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for females) will report fewer 
symptoms of OH and AD than the usual care control group (i.e., those treated for symptomatic hypotension 
only). 
Aim 3: To compare BP threshold treatment and usual care control groups for differences in self-reported 
symptoms of OH and AD based on once weekly assessments: 
Exploratory Aim 3A: To compare groups on OH symptoms by survey (efficacy #3) 
 
Exploratory Aim 3B: To compare groups on AD symptoms by survey (safety #2)  
 


Exploratory Hypothesis 4: SCI inpatients in the BP threshold treatment group (pharmacological hypotension 
management initiated when systolic BP<110 mmHg for males and <100 mmHg for females) will have 
increased seated CBF velocity compared to the usual care control group (i.e., those treated for symptomatic 
hypotension only).    
Exploratory Aim 4: To compare treatment and control groups for seated CBF velocity assessed one time per 
week (efficacy #4). 
 
4. STUDY DESIGN 
 
The proposed investigation will utilize a two-group randomized design. Subjects that agree to participate 
will be randomly assigned to either the BP threshold treatment group or to the usual care group.  Block 
randomization will be provided for sub-groupings of subjects based on level of lesion as: cervical lesions (C1-
C8); high thoracic lesions (T1-T5) and low thoracic lesions (T6-T12).  Although use of a placebo control is often 
used to help ensure blinding of subjects and reduce bias in study designs similar to this, it was thought not 
possible in this particular study as both groups will potentially be receiving the same active intervention, the 
difference being only when the intervention is given if at all. Furthermore it would not ensure blinding to give a 
placebo to the usual care group who will only receive the usual care interventions if symptomatic. 
GROUP ASSIGNMENT 
Individuals randomized to the usual care group will receive BP management according to the current 
practice on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit as outlined in Figure 2. 


 
Figure 2. Usual Care Group: Advancement from one level to another will occur no sooner than every 2 days. 
While not identified on figure, the advancement can continue to Level 4 (Midodrine 15mg 2x/d), Level 5 
(Midodrine 20mg 2x/d), Level 6 (Midodrine 20mg 2x/d  + Fludrocortisone 0.1mg 2x/d), and Level 7 (Midodrine 
20mg 2x/d + Fludrocortisone 0.2mg 2x/d). 
 
 
Individuals assigned to the BP threshold treatment group will receive BP management, regardless of 
symptoms, to maintain systolic BP between 111-135 mmHg for males and 101- 135 mmHg for females for the 
duration of their in-patient hospital stay.  The BP management algorithm is outlined in Figure 3. 
 
Figure 3. Treatment Group: Advancement from one level to another will occur no sooner than every 2 days. 
While not identified on figure, the advancement can continue to Level 4 (Midodrine 15mg 2x/d), Level 5 
(Midodrine 20mg 2x/d), Level 6 (Midodrine 20mg 2x/d  + Fludrocortisone 0.1mg 2x/d), and Level 7 (Midodrine 
20mg 2x/d + Fludrocortisone 0.2mg 2x/d). 
 


The treatment algorithm for both the usual care and BP threshold treatment groups will be driven by a 
protocol programmed into the EMR with strict parameters for moving from level to level. The protocol will be 
reviewed daily by a coinvestigator who will complete a daily decision tree survey within the EMR.  
INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA.  
Participants will include 60 individuals aged 18- 89 with traumatic SCI who: 
• 
Have evidence of hypotension (systolic BP <110 mmHg for males and < 100 mmHg for females) 
measured in sitting for at least two separate measurements  
Individuals will be excluded if they: 
• 
Have insufficient mental capacity to independently provide informed consent  
• 
Have insufficient English speaking or reading ability to provide informed consent or complete 
assessments in English 
• 
Have contraindications to the use of midodrine 
• 
Are pregnant 
• 
Are hypertensive in sitting or supine position (systolic BP >140 mmHg) 
Note: If a potentially eligible participant is actively being treated for hypotension or hypertension, these 
medications will be stopped, if medically indicated, prior to rescreening. 
RECRUITMENT STRATEGY AND INFORMED CONSENT PROCESS.  
All individuals with traumatic SCI admitted to the SCI Rehabilitation Unit have their BP taken as per 
standard of care. Those individuals with a recorded BP <110 for males and <100 for females will be identified 
by the study co-investigators who are the attending physicians for all the persons with SCI admitted to the SCI 
Rehabilitation Unit. Potential subjects will receive a brief explanation of the study’s objectives, procedures, 
risks, and benefits from a member of the research team, and will be provided a consent form for their review. 
The research team will address questions and informed consent will be documented using an IRB-approved 
consent form. If medically indicated, individuals who screen out due to use of an anti-hypotensive or anti-
hypertensive agent will be allowed to taper off these medications and then be rescreened. 
DATA COLLECTION PROCEDURES  
Baseline Testing: Subjects will visit the testing laboratory on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit for baseline data 
collection, prior to initiation of the treatment protocol. Upon arrival, subjects will be placed in the supine position 


on an adjustable surface for instrumentation, which will be conducted in a quiet, dimly lit, thermo-neutral testing 
environment.  After a 20-minute period of quiet rest, a 10-minute sample of supine heart rate (HR), respiratory 
rate, BP and CBF velocity data will be collected.  Venous occlusion plethysmography (Vop) will be collected in 
the supine position for two 5-minute periods. After the supine data collection, subjects will be passively moved 
into the seated position, with the knees and hips at 90°, for the 10-minute seated data collection period.  
Subjects will be asked to complete two surveys related to AD and OH symptomology. Finally, subjects will be 
fitted with a 24-hour HR and BP monitor and will be asked to go about their normal routine. A record of all daily 
activities including rehabilitation, medications, eating and sleep/wake times will be logged. This testing session 
should take approximately 1 hour. 
Daily Testing: Every day supine and seated BP measurements will be performed at least three times per day.  
These BP assessments will be recorded in the supine and seated positions in the subject’s room by a patient 
care associate who is blind to the study arm allocation. For every scheduled physical and occupational therapy 
session, the treating therapist will be asked to complete a brief 6 question survey to document if that session 
was altered, disrupted, or missed due to hypotension (Therapist Reported Version).  The subject will also be 
asked to complete a brief survey to determine if from their perspective the session was altered, disrupted or 
missed due to hypotension (Subject Reported Version). In addition, every day a co-investigator and the 
attending physician for that subject will complete an EMR review of queried BP values within the previous 24 
hours, symptoms of low BP, adverse events related to high or low BP, and will review (and act upon for the 
usual care arm) the protocol treatment decision tree.  
Weekly Testing: At weekly intervals of between 6 and 8 days, subjects will be asked to visit the testing 
laboratory on the SCI Rehabilitation Unit.  Procedures for the weekly testing sessions will be the same as for 
the Baseline Testing. The 24-hour BP assessment will be conducted twice weekly. 
Discharge Testing:  At discharge subjects will undergo similar testing as described during the Baseline and 
Weekly Testing with the addition of the Patient Global Impression of Change survey, which will be 
administered by the Mount Sinai Site Research Assistant. 
 
Table 3: Administration of Measures by Study Visit. 
 
Admission 
- Baseline 
Week 
1 
Week 
2 
Week 
3 
Week 
x 
Discharge 


Daily 
Assessments: 
• 
Altered, Disrupted, or Missed Therapy Time Survey- Therapist Reported – A survey has been 
developed to document, any alteration, disruption, or missed time in the therapy plan for all therapy 
sessions over the duration of the LOS. The number of interruptions per session, the percentage of time, 
and total time affected will be captured. In addition the reasons for the altered, disrupted, or missed 
therapy will be documented. The data will be collected for the expected plan and for a plan (if low BP is 
the cause of the altered time) that would be expected if hypotension were not an issue. This survey will 
be completed by the therapist who will be blinded to group allocation. 
• 
Altered, Disrupted, or Missed Therapy Time Survey- Subject Reported- A survey has been 
developed to document any alteration, disruption, or missed time in the therapy plan for all therapy 
sessions and the subject reported reasons for this. This survey will capture in addition subject reported 
data regarding therapy adherence such as ‘I was expected to work on ‘XYZ’ but could not due to ‘QRS’.  
• 
Decision Tree- A checklist will be completed by the attending physician (co-investigator or covering 
physician) who sees that subject that day. The checklist queries for BP values, symptoms of low BP, 
adverse events related to high or low BP, and includes a protocol treatment decision tree. This will be 
incorporated into the hospital EMR.  
• 
Seated BP- Brachial BP will be measured by a trained clinician in the highest tolerated upright position 
Daily Altered, Disrupted, or 
Missed Therapy Time Survey- 
Therapist Reported Version 
 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
X 
Daily Altered, Disrupted, or 
Missed Therapy Time Survey- 
Subject Reported Version 
 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
X 
Daily Decision Tree 
X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
5-7X 
X 
Daily Seated BP 
X 
21X 
21X 
21X 
21X 
X 
Daily Supine BP 
X 
21X 
21X 
21X 
21X 
X 
Cerebral Blood Flow 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
Venous occlusion 
plethysmography 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
24-hour monitoring HR BP 
X 
2X 
2X 
2X 
2X 
X 
Patient Global Impression of 
Change 
 
 
 
 
 
X 
AD Symptoms Survey 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
OH Symptoms Survey 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
Adverse Events 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 


at least three times per day using an automated blood pressure cuff. 
• 
Supine BP- Brachial BP will be measured by a trained clinician in the supine position at least three 
times using an automated blood pressure cuff.  
Once Weekly Assessments: 
• 
Heart Rate & Respiration Rate - A three lead electrocardiogram will be used to determine HR and 
autonomic cardiac control with HR variability, with the recording electrode in the V5 position 
(RESP1EKG: Impedance Pneumograph, UFI 545 Main St. Suite C-2, Moro Bay, CA 93442).  HR and 
respiratory rate data will be monitored for 10-minutes in the supine and 10-minutes in the seated 
positions during the baseline assessment, at weekly intervals throughout the in-patient LOS and at 
discharge. The electrocardiogram data will be viewed in real-time and stored on a secured desktop 
computer for future analysis using LabVIEW graphical software for instrumentation (National 
Instruments, Austin, TX, USA).     
• 
Blood Pressure: 
o Brachial BP (GE Healthcare Information Tech; Milwaukee, WI; # PRO Series 400) will be 
measured by automated auscultation using standardized procedures at 1-minute intervals 
during the 10-minute supine and seated assessments at baseline, weekly intervals and at 
discharge. 
o Beat-to-beat finger BP will be monitored continuously using photoplethysmography (Finometer 
® MIDI Model-2; Finopres Medical Systems B.V. Amsterdam, The Netherlands) at the finger 
arteriolar for assessment of BP variability and baroreceptor reflex activity.  Beat-to-beat BP data 
will be monitored continuously for 10-minutes in the supine and 10-minutes in the seated 
positions at baseline, weekly intervals and at discharge. Finger BP data will be viewed in real-
time and stored on a secured desktop computer for future analysis using LabVIEW graphical 
software for instrumentation (National Instruments, Austin, TX, USA).     
• 
Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound - CBF velocity will be monitored weekly for 10-minutes in the supine 
and 10-minutes in the seated positions using a transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasound (Terumo 
Cardiovascular Systems 1311 Valencia Avenue Tustin, CA 92780-6447) to visualize the middle 
cerebral artery (MCA).  The TCD probe will be operated at a frequency of 2.0 MHz to visualize the left 


and right MCA through the temporal window, which will be identified by the depth (45-55 mm), sound 
and direction of flow (towards the probe), as evidenced by the color and spectral waveform.  Once the 
MCA has been visualized a head-harness will be used to secure the probe position for the duration of 
testing.   MCA CBF velocity (cm/sec) will be calculated as [peak systolic velocity + (2* end diastolic 
velocity)]/3, which is an accepted surrogate of CBF.64-66  TCD signals will be viewed in real time and will 
be channeled and stored on a hard-drive for future analysis using customized data acquisition and 
analysis programs written with LabVIEW graphical software for instrumentation.   
• 
Venous occlusion plethysmography (Vop) - We will use standard equipment; a rapid cuff inflator, 
plethysmograph, and rubber strain gauge (D.E. Hokanson, Inc., Bellevue, WA, 98005). Subjects will be 
supine with their dominant-side leg elevated at heart level. A tape cloth will be used to measure the 
widest circumference on their calf, a strain gauge 2cm smaller than the widest circumference measured 
will be placed on their calf. A small inflatable cuff will be placed just above the ankle; a second cuff will 
be wrapped around the thigh at its midpoint. The ankle cuff is inflated to suprasystolic pressure 
(≈200mmHg) while the thigh cuff is rapidly inflated just below diastolic pressure (≈50mmHg). The strain 
gauge will measure the change in volume, outputting the data to our autonomic data collection cart. 
The cuff will remain inflated until a plateau in volume change is observed, the cuffs will then be deflated 
and we will continue monitoring the change in blood volume until it returns to resting values. The test 
will be repeated two more times. 
• 
Adverse Events Survey- A checklist will be reviewed with subjects and the treating physician on a 
weekly basis to evaluate for adverse events potentially related to the interventions. 
• 
Vancouver Autonomic Dysfunction Surveys: 
o AD Symptoms Survey- A 9 question survey which queries about the subjects about potential 
manifestations of autonomic dysreflexia. The survey questions pertain symptoms of AD ranging 
from sweating and pounding headache to chills and goose bumps and asks the participant 
during what activities these symptoms occur and with what frequency. 
o OH Symptoms Survey- A 9-question survey which queries about the subjects about potential 
manifestations of hypotension and OH. The survey questions pertain to the symptoms of 
hypotension and OH ranging from dizziness and light headedness to fatigue and nausea, and 


asks the participant during what activities these symptoms occur and with what frequency. 
Twice Weekly Assessment: 
• 
24-hour BP assessment- Subjects will be instrumented with a 24-hour HR and BP monitor 
(Vasomedical Biox® Model 2301 Combined Ambulatory ECG and Blood Pressure Recorder (BIOX 
INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD. 4/5 Taihu Bldg. No. 45-1 LiangXi Road Wuxi, Jiangsu 214062 P.R. China), 
which will record HR and BP 3 times/hour during the daytime and 2 times per hour during the nighttime. 
Date on 24-hour HR and BP will be recorded throughout the activities of daily living, including transfers, 
therapy time, meals, and voiding.  Monitoring will be scheduled to co-inside with these activities at least 
once per week during the in-patient stay. 
Discharge Assessment: 
• 
Patient global impression of change. In measuring outcomes in intervention studies, transition 
ratings have been used to assess the subjects’ experience of change.67-69 Guyatt et al. as along with 
others has suggested these ratings be used to supplement “objective” outcome measures.68 In a global 
change or global transition rating, the individual expresses how much better or worse the problem being 
treated seems to him/her in comparison to another time point. In this investigation, the Patient Global 
Impression of Change rating at Discharge, will take the form of, “Taking into account only your ability to 
not be lightheaded or have other symptoms of low blood pressure while you are sitting or standing, are 
you feeling you are able to do all you are capable of doing during therapy now as compared to when 
you first arrived?”  If the individual states that there is no change, then the rating is complete. If he or 
she is worse or better, the individual is asked to quantify the magnitude of the change on a seven-point 
scale (1-very much better; 2-better; 3-somewhat better; 4-unchanged; 5-somewhat worse; 6-worse; 7-
very much worse). 
5. DATA ANALYSIS 
 
The primary outcome variable is altered, disrupted, or missed time lost in therapy due to hypotensive 
episodes. The recorded data will be converted to a percent time lost, which is then averaged over the LOS in 
days for each subject. Differences in percent time altered, disrupted, or missed between BP threshold 
treatment and usual care groups will be statistically analyzed using a two-tailed independent t-test. In addition, 


the 95% confidence interval for the difference between groups and the associated effect size (Cohen’s D) will 
be calculated.  
The secondary outcome (Aim 2) of cumulative time spent outside the normotensive range, (i.e., time spent 
at a SBP > 140mmHg, time spent < 110mmHg for males and < 100mmHg for females) and the exploratory 
outcome of group differences in seated CBFv (Exploratory Aim 4), will be collectively analyzed using the 
multivariate Hotelling’s T2 analysis with an alpha level of 0.05. Where appropriate, the data will undergo a 
transformation (e.g., log, square root) if marked deviations from normality (Z for skewness and/or kurtosis > 
|2.0|) are evident. In addition, potential covariate relationships will be explored between treatment approach 
and each of the dependent variables, age, level of lesion, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) 
Impairment Scale classification, and previous medical diagnoses by building separate univariate regression 
models. For Exploratory Aim 3A and 3B, the counts of symptoms of OH and AD will be analyzed using Poisson 
tests.  
 
Statistical Power 
Based on pilot data collected in our facility, we estimate that at power=0.80 and alpha=0.05, a sample size 
of 34 subjects per group will allow us to detect a 15 percentage point difference in therapy time altered, 
disrupted, or missed between groups. 
6. PERSONNEL 
 
 
Jill M. Wecht, Ed.D., is the Principal Investigator for the site specific project. She will be responsible for 
all scientific, administrative, human subjects and logistical issues related to the trial. She will train staff, ensure 
procedures are completed according to protocol, monitor adherence to timelines, and will lead the preparation 
of reports, publications and presentations. Joseph P. Weir, Ph.D., Professor and Chair of the Department of 
Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences at the University of Kansas will perform all the statistical analysis. 
Thomas Bryce, M.D. and Miguel Escalon, M.D. as Co-Investigators will refer patients to the study and ensure 
that the interventions are prescribed appropriately per usual care for the usual care group and that the protocol 
is followed for the BP Threshold treatment arm for all enrolled subjects. Drs. Bryce and Escalon will monitor 
subjects for adverse events on a daily basis. Both investigators will be unblinded to group allocation. Mastanna 
Eraifej will be the Research Coordinator for the project, she will perform, under the supervision of Dr. Wecht, 


weekly cardiovascular autonomic testing and the TCD ultrasounds for CBF velocity. Ms. Eraifej is based at the 
Bronx VA and will come to Mount Sinai for the weekly evaluations, and will be completely blinded to subject 
group allocation. Jacqueline Gurevich will be the Mount Sinai Site Research Assistant for the project who will 
assist in obtaining informed consents, collecting data via questionnaires, managing study data files, and other 
administrative support activities required for the successful implementation of the project. She will be blinded to 
group allocation as well.  
7. TIMETABLE 
  
 
A timetable for this investigation is enclosed as Table 4. Recruitment and data collection are expected 
to be complete by year 4, allowing 1 year for data analysis and reporting.  
Table 4: Project Timetable. 
Year 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
Quarter 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
2
0 
Refine protocol 
x 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Train Research 
Staff 
x 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obtain IRB 
approvals  
x 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
 
 
x 
 
Recruit and enroll 
subjects 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
 
 
 
Collect and 
process data 
 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
 
Analyze data 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
x 
Prepare NIDILRR 
reports  
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
x 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
x 
 
Prepare 
publications  
presentations 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
x 
 
 
 
 
 
 
x 
x 
 
8. OUTCOMES, OUTPUTS, DISSEMINATION AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION 
 
The core short-term outcome of this study will be preliminary data on the impact of symptomatic treatment 
versus anti-hypotensive therapy initiated regardless of symptoms, as well as information needed to design a 
future large- scale clinical trial to provide evidence for the use of anti-hypotension therapy initiated based on 
BP, regardless of symptoms, as a new paradigm of care during acute in-patient rehabilitation following SCI.  
Results of the study will be disseminated via several outputs to promote more effective treatment of 
hypotension experienced by individuals with SCI. A paper discussing findings from the study and 


recommendations for future research will be prepared in year 5, and will be submitted for publication in an SCI-
focused journal such as the Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine or Spinal Cord. Presentations discussing the 
impacts of the interventions tested and lessons learned for future study planning will be made at scientific 
conferences of rehabilitation specialists (e.g. American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM), 
American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA)) in Year 5. Information about study progress and findings will be 
shared with the SCI community via newsletter articles and/or web postings.  
9. STAGE OF RESEARCH 
  
 
This project fits the Exploration and Discovery stage of research. We will discover if we can limit 
alterations and disruptions to prescribed rehabilitation therapies due to hypotension during inpatient 
rehabilitation by initiating anti-hypotension treatment based upon a BP threshold rather than the usual care 
treatment of only symptomatic hypotension. We will also explore the safety of initiating treatment for 
hypotension before it becomes symptomatic. In combination, these study outputs will expand the evidence for 
when anti-hypotension treatment should be initiated in persons with SCI and hypotension.