Comparing iodine and chlorhexidine solutions for reducing infections in spinal surgery

Effectiveness of Povidone-Iodine Versus Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solutions in Reducing Microbial Contamination in Spinal Surgery Wounds During Intraoperative Soaking.

Not applicable Interventional National Cheng-Kung University Hospital · NCT06284174

This study is testing whether using iodine or chlorhexidine solutions during spinal surgery can better reduce infections for patients having surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment105 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNational Cheng-Kung University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tainan, Taiwan)
Trial IDNCT06284174 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of povidone-iodine and chlorhexidine gluconate solutions in reducing bacterial contamination during spinal surgery. It aims to determine which antiseptic solution is more effective for intraoperative wound irrigation and to assess any potential side effects associated with their use. Patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis scheduled for open spinal decompression and fusion surgery will be included in the study. The research will involve intraoperative sampling to measure bacterial load before closing the surgical wounds.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis who require posterior lumbar decompression with fusion surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with allergies to disinfectants, previous surgeries at the surgical site, or those with active infections may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved infection control practices in spinal surgery, enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with chlorhexidine in joint surgeries, but evidence for its effectiveness in spinal surgery is limited, making this approach somewhat novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who were diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis need to undergo posterior lumbar decompression with fusion surgery.

Exclusion Criteria:

* People who are allergic to disinfectants (Providine or CHG)
* The surgical site has been operated before.
* Patients under active infection status.

Where this trial is running

Tainan, Taiwan

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.
Conditions Spine InfectionSpine surgery, Providine-iodine, Chlorohexidine gluconate, surgical wound infection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.