Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium

This study tested whether adding tobramycin powder to the standard vancomycin powder in the wound during surgery could reduce deep infections after fixing severe leg fractures. Over 1,500 adults with high-risk tibial plateau or pilon fractures were randomly assigned to receive ei…

This study tested whether giving patients extra oxygen (80% FiO2) during surgery could reduce surgical site infections after severe tibial plateau or pilon fractures. Over 1,100 patients were randomly assigned to receive either supplemental oxygen or standard care. The main goal …

This study looked at 442 people with severe open fractures of the shin bone (tibia). It compared two surgical approaches: using a modern ring external fixator (a frame outside the leg) versus internal fixation (a metal rod or plate placed inside the bone). The main goal was to se…

This study tested a new rehab approach for people recovering from a broken femur (thigh bone). The method, called REPAIR, adds a blood pressure cuff to partially restrict blood flow during exercises. The goal was to see if this helps patients regain thigh strength and muscle size…

This study tested a program called CBPT that combines physical therapy with cognitive-behavioral techniques to help people recover from serious leg injuries. 633 adults with lower extremity injuries participated. The goal was to see if CBPT improves physical function, reduces pai…

This study examined bacteria in severe leg wounds of 646 adults (ages 18-64) with open tibia fractures or traumatic amputations. Researchers took samples at the time of wound closure to see if certain bacteria led to deep infections within 30 days to one year. The goal was to bet…

This study looked at whether starting to put weight on your leg early after ankle fracture surgery helps you recover better than waiting longer. 435 adults who had surgery for certain types of ankle fractures took part. Researchers tracked complications and how quickly people ret…

This study looked at 199 people who needed a below-knee amputation after a serious leg injury. Researchers compared two surgical methods: the Ertl procedure, which creates a bone bridge between the shin and calf bones, and the Burgess procedure, which does not. The goal was to se…

This study looked for proteins in the blood that could tell doctors early on whether a broken arm bone is healing well or might lead to a nonunion (where the bone doesn't heal). Researchers studied 45 adults with simple humerus fractures treated without surgery. They checked bloo…

This study tested a new 'Mobility Toolkit' to see how well it measures walking recovery in 244 adults aged 18-60 who had surgery for serious leg fractures. Participants used the toolkit during clinic visits over a year. The goal was to see if the toolkit is easy to use and accura…