Adaptive head and neck support for thoracic surgery

Chest-Up: Obtaining Safe Positioning for Thoracic Surgery

NA · National University Hospital, Singapore · NCT04462497

This study is testing a new head and neck support pillow for patients having thoracic surgery to see if it can prevent injuries caused by the old method of using stacked towels.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNational University Hospital, Singapore (other)
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT04462497 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on developing a prototype device designed to provide safe positioning for patients undergoing thoracotomy surgeries in the lateral decubitus position. The current method of using stacked towels for head support poses risks of mechanical injuries to the shoulder and neck. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this new head and neck support pillow in reducing complications associated with traditional positioning methods. By addressing these safety concerns, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes during thoracic surgeries.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 21 and above who are scheduled for elective thoracic surgery in the lateral decubitus position.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those under 21 years of age, emergency cases, pregnant individuals, and those who are cognitively impaired or unconscious.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this device could significantly reduce the risk of mechanical injuries and complications during thoracic surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, there is limited existing literature on similar adaptive devices for thoracic surgery positioning, indicating that this may be a novel intervention.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 21 years and above
* Listed for elective thoracic surgery in the lateral decubitus position

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient refusal
* Age below 21 years
* Emergency cases
* Pregnant patients
* Cognitively impaired patients
* Unconscious patients

Where this trial is running

Singapore

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Thoracic, Intraoperative, Lateral decubitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.