Using light-based imaging for open and infected fractures
Official title: Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging to Visualize Bacteria or Biofilm on Hardware, Bone and Soft Tissue in Open Fracture and Infected Fracture
Run by Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center · NCT05785182 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new light-based imaging method to see if it can help doctors better diagnose and manage open or infected fractures without using drugs or contrast agents.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lebanon, New Hampshire) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 27, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 28, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 2, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05785182 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 years or older who have an open fracture or a fracture-related infection.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with metatarsal fractures will not benefit from this study as they are excluded from participation.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot observational study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with open or infected fractures. The study aims to assess how well this light-based imaging technique can be integrated into clinical practice without the need for drugs or contrast agents. By observing patients with these specific fracture types, researchers will gather data on the effectiveness of OCT in diagnosing and managing these injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the diagnostic capabilities for patients with open or infected fractures, leading to better treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is relatively novel, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Open fracture * Fracture Related Infection Exclusion Criteria: * Metatarsal fractures
Where it's running
-
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ida L Gitajn — Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Holly B Symonds
- Email: Holly.B.Symonds@hitchcock.org
- Phone: 603-653-9440
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.