Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 and up

Comparing iodine and chlorhexidine solutions for reducing infections in spinal surgery

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

Run by National Cheng-Kung University Hospital · NCT06284174 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment105 (estimated)
SponsorNational Cheng-Kung University Hospital
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tainan, Taiwan)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 1, 2021
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2024
Study endsMay 31, 2025
Registry record updatedMay 29, 2025
Trial IDNCT06284174 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

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

Probably 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.

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 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.

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 gone: 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.

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

  • National Cheng Kung University Hospital
    Tainan, Taiwan, Taiwan
    Recruiting

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.