Simple tube after spine surgery may cut complications

NCT ID NCT06820736

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Twin Cities Spine Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether placing a small drain near the surgical site after one- or two-level lumbar spine surgery reduces complications like infection or the need for another operation. About 975 adults having open back surgery for spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis are randomly assigned to receive a drain or not. Researchers track reoperations, wound issues, hospital stay length, and transfusion needs.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Drain (a small flexible tube placed near the surgical site to remove fluid)
What this could lead to: If a drain is shown to reduce complications, it could become a standard practice to improve recovery after lumbar spine surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a single trial, and results may not apply to all types of spine surgery. Drains themselves carry a small risk of infection or discomfort.

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.

lumbar spinal stenosis Postoperative Complications spondylolisthesis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COMPLICATIONS, POSTOPERATIVE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Abbott Northwestern Hospital
RECRUITING

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55404, United States

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