A Comparison of Post-Sternotomy Dressings (NCT02198066) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
A Comparison of Post-Sternotomy Dressings
United States351 participantsStarted 2010-07
Plain-language summary
The purpose of this study was to determine which of three types of dressings, a dry sterile dressing, a metallic silver dressing or an ionic silver dressing provided better patient outcomes for the post-sternotomy cardiac surgery patient population. In this prospective, randomized controlled trial, the hypothesis was that subjects who received either of the silver impregnated dressings would have better outcomes (better wound healing, less discomfort, and less incidence of infection). Investigators also evaluated dressing factors such as adherence, time for application and ease of use.
Who can participate
Age range
21 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adult (at least 21 years of age) inpatients awaiting cardiac surgery or outpatients seen in the pre-surgical testing area prior to admission for surgery
* Having surgery at the study setting
* English-speaking
* Able to understand and give consent
* Had the approval of their cardiothoracic surgeon to participate
* Had no known sensitivity to silver
* Had no known sensitivity to alginates
Exclusion Criteria:
* Known sensitivity to silver
* Known sensitivity to alginates
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Wound Healing
Timeframe: 5 days postoperatively or day of discharge, whichever came first