Comparing different methods for securing thoracic epidural catheters
Official title: The Effects of Fixation Technique On Thoracic Epidural Catheter Displacement: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University of Utah · NCT03976154 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if using Dermabond to secure thoracic epidural catheters works better than two other methods to keep them in place for surgical patients.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2019 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | March 7, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03976154 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are surgical patients aged 18 and older who are scheduled to receive a thoracic epidural.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have allergies to adhesives, are pregnant, or have contraindications to receiving an epidural will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Dermabond as a fixation technique for thoracic epidural catheters, comparing it to two commonly used methods: Mastisol and the Grip-Lok fixation bandage. The goal is to determine which technique minimizes catheter displacement, thereby improving patient outcomes. Participants will include surgical patients aged 18 and older who are receiving a thoracic epidural. The study will exclude individuals with certain medical conditions or allergies that could affect their participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved fixation techniques for thoracic epidural catheters, enhancing patient safety and comfort.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is not widely tested, similar studies on catheter fixation techniques have shown varying degrees of success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * surgical patient * receiving a thoracic epidural * 18 years of age or older Exclusion Criteria: * Patient refusal * allergy to adhesives or local anesthesia * pregnancy * contraindication to receiving an epidural including coagulopathy, infection, elevated ICP, or severe pre-existing neurologic disorders
Where it's running
-
University of Utah Health Sciences Center
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ami Stuart, PhD
- Email: ami.stuart@hsc.utah.edu
- Phone: 8017934800
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.