Cryoablation for pain relief in rib fractures
Comparison of Cryoablation of Intercostal Nerves to Erector Spinae Plane Catheters in Patients With Rib Fractures
This study tests if a freezing treatment for nerve pain can help people with multiple rib fractures feel better than the usual pain management method.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT06347874 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of cryoablation of the intercostal nerves in providing pain relief for patients with multiple rib fractures. Participants will be compared to those receiving an ESP catheter for pain management. The primary outcome is pain control measured seven days post-procedure. The study aims to determine if cryoablation offers superior pain relief compared to the standard ESP catheter approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 with multiple rib fractures.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have bilateral fractures, or have contraindications to regional anesthesia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management for patients with rib fractures.
How similar studies have performed: Similar studies have shown promise in using cryoablation for pain management, but this specific approach for rib fractures is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who are over 18 who have more than one ribs fractured. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who have an exclusion to regional anesthesia. * Patients who are pregnant via self-report or pregnancy test if they take one. * Non-English speakers * Patients who have cold urticaria * Patients with bilateral fractures * Patients currently intubated
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Neil Hanson — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Candace Nelson
- Email: nelso377@umn.edu
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.