Measuring blood flow in bones to improve treatment of infections after fractures

Real-time fluorescence-based measurement of bone perfusion in post-traumatic infection

NIH-funded research Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic · NIH-10825518

This study is testing a new way to see how well blood is flowing in bones that have infections after a fracture, using a special imaging technique to help surgeons make better decisions during surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lebanon, United States)
Project IDNIH-10825518 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique using indocyanine green (ICG) to measure blood flow in bones affected by infections following fractures. By using dynamic contrast-enhanced fluorescence imaging (DCE-FI), the study aims to provide surgeons with objective data on bone perfusion, which is crucial for effective treatment. The goal is to enhance surgical decision-making during debridement procedures, ensuring that poorly perfused bone is accurately identified and removed. This approach is based on previous successful studies in animal models and initial clinical trials.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are trauma patients who have sustained bony fractures and are at risk of developing infections.

Not a fit: Patients with fractures that are not at risk of infection or those who have already undergone successful treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for bone infections, reducing complications and improving recovery for patients with fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in using similar imaging techniques in animal models and initial clinical settings, indicating promise for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Lebanon, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.