Standing CT scan could spot arthritis years earlier after ankle breaks

NCT ID NCT03809520

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: J L Marsh Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a low-dose standing CT scanner can detect early signs of arthritis in people who had an ankle fracture. Researchers followed 97 adults for up to 5 years, measuring joint space changes and pain. The goal was to see if this imaging method could predict osteoarthritis risk better than standard tools, which could help guide treatment and test new prevention strategies.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to: If successful, this imaging method could help doctors detect early arthritis signs and test new treatments to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
What could go wrong: This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. The method may not prove better than existing techniques, and results may not apply to all patients.

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.

Ankle Fractures injury musculoskeletal system disorder osteoarthritis prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANKLE FRACTURES ORTHOPEDIC DISORDER POST-TRAUMATIC OSTEOARTHRITIS TRAUMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics

Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

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