Investigating ways to prevent infections after joint replacement surgery
Official title: The joint environment and periprosthetic joint infection
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10899591 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to prevent infections after joint replacement surgeries by understanding how the fluid around the implants changes and how that affects bacteria and antibiotics, so we can find the best time to use antibiotics and see if using ultrasound can help them work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $686,259 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082038-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899591 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals scheduled to undergo joint replacement surgery who are at risk for developing infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already developed a peri-prosthetic joint infection or those who are not candidates for joint replacement surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on preventing peri-prosthetic joint infections (PJI), which can occur after joint replacement surgeries. It examines how the fluid surrounding joint implants changes after surgery and how this affects bacterial behavior and antibiotic effectiveness. The study aims to identify a critical period, referred to as the 'golden window,' where antibiotics can be most effective in eradicating bacteria. Additionally, it explores the use of ultrasound-triggered microbubble disruption to enhance antibiotic sensitivity during this period.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of infections following joint replacement surgeries, improving patient outcomes and recovery times.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance antibiotic effectiveness and prevent infections, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hickok, Noreen J — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Hickok, Noreen J
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.