Early chest tube removal after lung surgery
Patient Reported Outcomes Targeting Early Chest Tube Removal (PROTECTR) Study
This study tests if taking out chest tubes on the same day after lung surgery can make recovery easier and more comfortable for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 130 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06444854 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the safety and feasibility of removing chest tubes on the same day after Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) for lung resections. It aims to address the outdated post-operative care pathways that often require prolonged hospitalization and chest tube maintenance, which can lead to increased discomfort and complications for patients. By implementing a protocol for early chest tube removal, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and enhance recovery after surgery. The research builds on previous findings that suggest early removal is safe and beneficial.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 years or older scheduled for elective VATS segmental or lobar lung resections.
Not a fit: Patients with significant pulmonary function impairment or those requiring intraoperative pleurodesis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to reduced hospital stays and improved recovery experiences for patients undergoing lung surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding early chest tube removal, but this is one of the first prospective controlled studies to evaluate its safety and feasibility.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 yrs or older * scheduled to undergo elective VATS segmental or lobar resection of the lung Exclusion Criteria: * Pulmonary function tests demonstrating forced expiratory volume in 1 second Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1) \<50% predicted, FEV1 \<1.5L and/or diffusion lung capacity of carbon monoxide Lung Diffusion Test (DLCO) \<50% predicted * Patient receives an intraoperative pleurodesis * Conversion to open thoracotomy or mini thoracotomy intraoperatively. * Underlying cognitive disorder resulting in inability to complete activities of daily living.
Where this trial is running
London, Ontario
- London Health Sciences Centre — London, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rahul Nayak, MD MSc — Western University
- Study coordinator: Deb Lewis
- Email: deb.lewis@lhsc.on.ca
- Phone: 5196858500
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.