Essential amino acid supplementation for patients with femoral fractures
Official title: MEND Repair & Recover Clinical Trial
Run by University of Iowa · NCT06050668 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if taking essential amino acids for four weeks after surgery can help people with femoral fractures recover better and keep their muscle strength.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Iowa Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Iowa City, Iowa and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 17, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06050668 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are hospital inpatients aged 65 and older who have sustained a low-energy femoral fracture and are indicated for surgical fixation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are non-ambulatory prior to injury or have cognitive impairments 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 trial evaluates the effects of a 4-week postoperative essential amino acid (EAA) supplementation on muscle health following femoral fragility fractures. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard care or EAA-based supplementation, with assessments conducted over a 6-month period. The study aims to measure changes in muscle morphology, metabolic activity, inflammation, and physical performance, utilizing muscle biopsies and body composition analysis. The goal is to determine if EAA supplementation can enhance recovery and preserve muscle mass after surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve recovery outcomes and muscle health for patients recovering from femoral fractures.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of EAA supplementation post-fracture is novel, similar studies have shown positive outcomes in muscle recovery and health in other contexts.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Hospital inpatient * Age ≥ 65 years old on admission * Low-energy mechanism of injury * Diagnosis of femur fracture (OTA 31, 32, or 33 fracture) * Indicated for surgical fixation * Able to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Part of a vulnerable population (ex: Incarcerated, Non-English speaking) * Cognitive impairment (MMSE score ≤ 17) * Electrical medical implant (ex: Pacemaker/Defibrillator, Left Ventricular Assist Device, Cochlear implant, Insulin pump, Pain medication pumps, Spinal cord stimulator) * Non-ambulatory prior to injury * Inability to consume an oral diet or allergy to supplement ingredients (ex: milk allergy) * Concern for inability to complete follow-up * Hemi or total arthroplasty (joint replacement) * Patients with a historical diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Where it's running
-
University of Iowa Health Care
Iowa City, Iowa, United States Recruiting -
Slocum Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Eugene, Oregon, United States Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael C Willey, MD — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Michael C Willey, MD
- Email: michael-willey@uiowa.edu
- Phone: 319-384-8452
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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.