Viruses that eat bacteria could help save infected joint replacements

NCT ID NCT07698002

First seen Jul 13, 2026 · Last updated Jul 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether adding bacteriophages—viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria—to standard surgery and antibiotics can improve outcomes for people with infected hip or knee replacements. The study enrolls adults with an infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa who are undergoing a procedure to clean the joint while keeping the implant in place. Participants receive three injections of a phage cocktail directly into the joint over two weeks, and researchers monitor safety and treatment response.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
bacteriophage cocktails targeting Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could improve the success rate of joint infection treatment, reducing the need for repeated surgeries and long antibiotic courses.
What could go wrong
This is a small early feasibility trial with only 10 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Phage therapy may cause allergic reactions or lead to bacterial resistance.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

    Ottawa, Canada