Cryoablation for pain relief in rib fractures
Official title: Comparison of Cryoablation of Intercostal Nerves to Erector Spinae Plane Catheters in Patients With Rib Fractures
Run by University of Minnesota · NCT06347874 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 48 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 10, 2025 |
| Main results expected | February 13, 2027 |
| Study ends | March 13, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06347874 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults over 18 with multiple rib fractures.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have bilateral fractures, or have contraindications to regional anesthesia 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 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.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve pain management for patients with rib fractures.
How similar studies have gone: Similar studies have shown promise in using cryoablation for pain management, but this specific approach for rib fractures is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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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
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Breathing exercises for patients with rib fractures
This study is testing if breathing exercises can help patients with rib fractures avoid lung problems better than just standard pain treatment.
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Freezing Nerves to Relieve Pain from Rib Fractures
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Efficacy of continuous intercostal nerve block for patients with multiple rib fractures
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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.