Testing a new imaging method to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis

An Imaging Framework for Clinically Testing New Treatments to Prevent Post-traumatic OA

Not applicable Interventional University of Iowa · NCT03809520

This study is testing a new type of CT scan to see if it can help catch early signs of joint damage in people with ankle fractures, so they can get better treatment and avoid osteoarthritis later on.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Iowa Academic / other
Locations1 site (Iowa City, Iowa)
Trial IDNCT03809520 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to evaluate a new low-cost, low-dose standing CT system for the early detection of joint degeneration and elevated contact stress in patients with ankle fractures. Participants will undergo pedCAT scans at 6, 12, and 18 months post-injury, alongside questionnaires to gather data on their recovery. The study also seeks to develop predictive models for osteoarthritis risk based on post-treatment contact stress measurements, which could inform future treatment strategies and interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 70 who have sustained an intra-articular fracture of the tibial plafond and are indicated for operative treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 18, older than 70, or pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection and prevention of post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with ankle fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for early detection of joint issues, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals 18 to 70 years old Sustained an intra-articular fracture of the tibial plafond Indicated for operative treatment Present for treatment within 4 weeks of injury

Exclusion Criteria:

* Women who are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant Individuals younger than 18 and older than 70

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Orthopedic DisorderTraumaAnkle FracturesPost-traumatic Osteoarthritis
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.