This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a vacuum-assisted electric trimmer (VD-ETM) compared with a standard electric trimmer (ETM) for preoperative hair removal. The study will assess microbial and environmental contamination, surgical site infection (SSI), procedure duration, skin integrity, patient safety, and patient satisfaction. Preoperative hair removal is a critical step in preventing SSI; however, conventional ETM devices may contribute to environmental contamination due to dispersed hair particles. VD-ETM systems are designed to reduce this risk by simultaneously removing hair and capturing particles. This study will provide evidence on whether VD-ETM improves operating room hygiene and patient outcomes.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
MALE
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:
* Male patients aged 18 years and older
* Scheduled for elective laparoscopic surgery
* Require preoperative hair removal at the surgical site
* Classified as ASA I, ASA II, or ASA III
* Able and willing to provide written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* Female patients
* Patients who do not require preoperative hair removal
* ASA IV or higher risk classification
* Presence of active skin lesions at the surgical site that may affect assessment (e.g., dermatitis, psoriasis, open wounds, prominent scars, recent sunburn)
* Use of any of the following within the last 7 days:
* Antimicrobial soap, lotion, or shampoo
* Topical or systemic antibiotics
* Steroid therapy
* Exposure to biocide-containing pools or thermal/spa waters
* Severe immunosuppression (e.g., absolute neutropenia, high-dose steroid therapy)
* Requirement for emergency surgery
* Known allergy to any products or procedures used in the study
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
Microbial Environmental Contamination
Timeframe: Time Frame: Immediately after completion of the hair removal procedure