Using Fitbit to detect infections in children after appendectomy

Using the Fitbit for Early Detection of Infection and Reduction of Healthcare Utilization After Discharge in Pediatric Surgical Patients

NA · Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NCT06395636

This study tests if using Fitbit data can help doctors spot infections early in children recovering from appendix surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages3 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorAnn & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago (other)
Locations4 sites (Chicago, Illinois and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06395636 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of Fitbit data to predict postoperative infections in pediatric patients who have undergone laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis. By analyzing near-real-time data on heart rate, physical activity, and sleep patterns, the study aims to enhance clinician decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Machine learning algorithms will be employed to interpret the large volumes of data generated by the Fitbit, allowing for timely interventions when physiological changes indicate potential infections. The goal is to monitor recovery more effectively and reduce postoperative healthcare utilization.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 3-18 years who have recently undergone laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis.

Not a fit: Patients who are non-ambulatory, have significant pre-existing mobility limitations, or have other comorbidities affecting recovery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to earlier detection of infections, improving recovery times and reducing complications for pediatric surgical patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of consumer wearables in clinical settings is emerging, this specific application of Fitbit data for postoperative infection detection in pediatric patients is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* children aged 3-18 years
* must be post-surgical laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis (Appendicitis is categorized as complicated if perforation, phlegmon, or abscess was present at surgery.)

Exclusion Criteria:

* children who are non-ambulatory or have any pre-existing mobility limitations
* children who have a doctor-ordered physical activity limit \>48 hours post-surgery
* children who have a comorbidity which will impact a patient's recovery
* children and/or parents who do not speak English or Spanish (Translation services beyond Spanish will not be available at this time)

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois and 3 other locations

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: Appendectomy, Appendicitis, Appendicitis Acute, consumer wearables, machine learning, ML, Fitbit, infection

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.