This retrospective observational study aims to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of infection associated with epidural catheter and port applications performed in the Pain Clinic of Mersin University Faculty of Medicine. Data from patients who underwent epidural catheter or port placement between January 2002 and January 2025 will be analyzed.
Demographic data, catheter duration, insertion level, type of device, clinical indication, and microbiological culture results will be examined to determine factors influencing infection development. The study seeks to identify common pathogens and assess potential relationships between procedural characteristics and infection risk.
The ultimate goal of this research is to contribute to improving infection prevention strategies and ensuring patient safety in interventional pain management practices.
Who can participate
Age range
18 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:
* Patients aged 18 years and older.
* Patients who underwent epidural catheter or epidural port application at Mersin University Pain Clinic between January 1, 2002 and January 1, 2025.
* Complete clinical records including demographic data, procedural details, and culture results available for review.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Patients with incomplete or missing procedural or infection data.
Patients whose records do not include culture or infection status documentation.
Patients younger than 18 years old.
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
Incidence of Infection Associated With Epidural Catheter or Port Use
Timeframe: From date of catheter or port placement until device removal or completion of follow-up (within study period January 2002-January 2025).