Using Betadine to Prevent Infections in Spinal Fusion Surgery

Subdermal Betadine to Reduce Microbacterial Bioburden During Posterior Spinal Fusion

Phase 4 Interventional Akron Children's Hospital · NCT06744907

This study is testing if using Betadine during spinal fusion surgery can help prevent infections in patients with scoliosis.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 26 Years
SexAll
SponsorAkron Children's Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Akron, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06744907 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of subdermal 10% povidone-iodine in reducing bacterial contamination during posterior spinal fusion surgeries in patients with scoliosis. It is a prospective, one-site, randomized controlled trial where participants will be assigned to either the povidone-iodine group or a control group. The primary outcome will measure the incidence of positive bacterial growth in the surgical wound, while secondary outcomes will assess complications such as allergic reactions and surgical site infections. The study will also observe various patient and surgical factors that may influence microbial growth.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are males and females undergoing primary posterior spinal fusion of the thoracic and/or lumbar spine.

Not a fit: Patients who have had prior spinal surgery or have contraindications to povidone-iodine will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the risk of infections following spinal fusion surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with povidone-iodine in surgical settings, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Males and females
* Undergoing primary posterior spinal fusion of the thoracic and/or lumbar spine
* English Speaking

Exclusion Criteria

* Patients who have undergone prior spinal surgery
* Undergoing procedures other than primary posterior spinal fusion of the thoracic and/or lumbar spine (cervical fusion, anterior surgery, growth-friendly instrumentation)
* Any contraindication to povidone-iodine, including pregnancy, allergy, or prior treatment with radioiodine

Where this trial is running

Akron, Ohio

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 Spinal FusionLumbar SpineThoracic SpineSubdermal BetadineMicrobacterial bioburden
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.