Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 100 Women only

Impact of showering on infection rates and quality of life after breast reconstruction

Official title: Effect of Drain Care on Infection Rate and Quality of Life in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction.

Run by University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT05846438 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if showering with drain tubes after breast reconstruction surgery affects infection rates and how patients feel during recovery.

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Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Missouri-Columbia
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbia, Missouri)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 15, 2023
Main results expectedMarch 15, 2028
Study endsMarch 15, 2028
Registry record updatedMay 5, 2026
Trial IDNCT05846438 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adults over 18 undergoing breast surgery with tissue expander placement and drains.

Probably not a fit

Patients with existing wounds or previous infections related to implant devices 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 clinical trial investigates whether showering with surgical drain tubes in place after breast reconstruction surgery increases the risk of infection and affects patients' quality of life. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one group will shower daily after 48 hours post-surgery, while the other will follow the standard care of waiting until drains are removed. The study aims to provide insights into postoperative care practices and their implications for patient outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved postoperative care practices that enhance patient quality of life without increasing infection risks.

How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on showering with drains in place, similar studies have explored postoperative care practices, indicating potential for meaningful insights.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* undergoing breast surgery with placement of tissue expander and drains, acceptance of protocol and procedures, age \> 18

Exclusion Criteria:

* no existing wounds, previous infections related to implant device if delayed, refusal by patient

Where it's running

  • University of Missouri
    Columbia, Missouri, United States
    Recruiting

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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.