Using Continuous Passive Motion for Patients with Pelvic and Knee Fractures

The Role of Continuous Passive Motion in Pain Control of Patients Undergoing Operative Management of Isolated Acetabular Fractures, Supracondylar Femur Fractures, or Tibial Plateau Fracture: A Comparative Study

NA · University of Cincinnati · NCT04389749

This study is testing if a special movement therapy after surgery for pelvic and knee fractures can help patients feel less pain and recover better compared to regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Cincinnati (other)
Locations1 site (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT04389749 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study compares the effectiveness of continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy against standard care in patients who have undergone surgery for specific types of fractures. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving CPM therapy immediately post-surgery and the other receiving typical postoperative care. The study will assess pain levels and narcotic medication use during the hospital stay, as well as functional outcomes one year after surgery. Data will be collected on visual analog scale scores and monitored for any adverse events.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who have had open reduction and internal fixation for isolated acetabular, supracondylar femur, or tibial plateau fractures.

Not a fit: Patients with injuries affecting their ability to bear weight or those under 18, pregnant, or incarcerated may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to reduced pain and lower narcotic use for patients recovering from pelvic and knee fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with CPM in similar orthopedic contexts, suggesting potential benefits in pain management and recovery.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 or greater
* Isolated acetabular fractures, supracondylar femur fractures, or tibial plateau fracture
* Have undergone operative intervention for fracture

Exclusion Criteria:

* Injury to either lower extremity that affects the patient's ability to weight bear
* Under the age of 18
* Pregnant
* A prisoner

Where this trial is running

Cincinnati, 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Fractures, Bone

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.