Nose swab could stop staph infections after broken leg surgery

NCT ID NCT05763602

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

Summary

This study tests whether putting povidone iodine ointment inside the nose before surgery can lower the risk of surgical site infections, especially from staph bacteria, in people having surgery for severe leg, ankle, or foot fractures. About 2000 adults will receive the nose treatment before their operation. The goal is to see if this simple step reduces deep infections and helps patients heal better.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

povidone iodine ointment applied inside the nose

What this could lead to

If it works, this simple, low-cost nose treatment could become a standard way to prevent serious infections after leg fracture surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a single trial with 2000 participants, and results may not apply to all surgeries or patients. The treatment might not reduce infections enough to be worthwhile.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Surgical Wound Infection

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Emory University

    Atlanta, Georgia, 30303, United States

  • University of Indiana

    Indianapolis, Indiana, 46202, United States

  • University of Iowa

    Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

  • University of Texas Southwestern

    Dallas, Texas, 75235, United States

  • University of Utah

    Salt Lake City, Utah, 84108, United States

  • Washington University

    St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States