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Can antibiotic powder stop infections in open fractures?

NCT ID NCT04872400

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Colorado, Denver Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether putting antibiotic powder (vancomycin or tobramycin) directly into open fracture wounds right after injury can prevent infections. Twenty adults with severe open fractures of the arm or leg took part. The goal was to see if this simple step reduces surgical site infections and helps bones heal properly.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Vancomycin or Tobramycin powder applied directly to the wound
What this could lead to
If it works, this could provide a simple way to reduce infections after severe open fractures, potentially shortening hospital stays and lowering costs.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, completed Phase 4 trial with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The approach is already used in practice, so major breakthroughs are unlikely.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bone fracture Fractures, Open Infections injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANTI-BACTERIAL AGENTS EXTREMITY FRACTURE LOWER EXTREMITY FRACTURES UPPER FRACTURES, BONE FRACTURES, OPEN WOUNDS AND INJURIES--INFECTIONS

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Denver Health and Hospital Authority

    Denver, Colorado, 80204, United States

  • University of Colorado Anschutz

    Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States

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