Intrawound Vancomycin Prophylaxis for Neural Stimulator
Canada900 participantsStarted 2017-09-15
Plain-language summary
The implantable pulse generator (IPG) is a device that generates electrical current to stimulate the spine, heart, or brain for various chronic conditions. In neurosurgery, the IPG is implanted in a subcutaneous pocket under the collarbone. This pocket is highly avascular and thus, antibiotics administered intravenously cannot reach a potential surgical site infection (SSI). SSIs cause millions of health care dollars to be wasted due to repeat surgery and hospital re-admissions. The investigators hope to to determine the effects of "intrawound vancomycin-saline and IV antibiotics" compared to "saline and IV antibiotics" on the incidence of IPG SSI rates 6-months post-surgery.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 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:
* individuals who require INS replacement from Dr. C.R. Honey
* individuals who are between the ages of 18 to 80.
* individuals who consent to report any redness or swelling to their primary caregiver and follow-up as requested by their surgeon
* individuals who consent to keeping the study team informed of any medical concerns they may have regarding their INS for a minimum of 6 months postoperatively
* individuals who are capable of providing informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* individuals who have a history of autoimmune disease
* individuals who are undergoing any surgery or procedural intervention within six-months post-operatively of entrance into this study
* individuals who are on immunosuppression or any medication that would influence infection susceptibility
* individuals who are allergic to Vancomycin or Cefazolin
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.