Could a simple neck band protect transplanted lungs from stomach acid?
NCT ID NCT03886961
First seen Jul 13, 2026 · Last updated Jul 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a device worn around the neck during sleep can reduce reflux in people who have received a lung transplant. Reflux can damage the new lungs, so researchers are measuring levels of stomach enzymes in lung fluid to see if the device helps. The trial involves 20 stable lung transplant patients who will use the Reflux Band for 4 weeks.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Reflux Band (a wearable device that supports the upper esophageal sphincter)
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this device could offer a non-drug way to manage reflux after lung transplant, potentially protecting the transplanted lungs from damage.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to all patients. The device may be uncomfortable or fail to reduce reflux significantly.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 20 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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May 2019
- Expected to finish
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Dec 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 80 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinically stable lung transplant patients(single lung, double lung, or re-transplant) as defined by stable FEV1 over the prior two visits * 13 Abnormal pH impedence or esophagram or documented gastric reflux at pre-transplant evaluation * Patient must be willing and able to provide informed consent * Understands the clinical study requirements and is able to comply with follow-up schedule Exclusion Criteria: * Currently being treated with another investigational medical device and/or drug * Currently receiving treatment for sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) * Previous head or neck surgery / radiation * Carotid artery disease, thyroid disease, or history of cerebral vascular disease * Nasopharyngeal cancer * Suspected esophageal cancer
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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.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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UF Health at the University of Florida
RECRUITINGGainesville, Florida, 32610, United States
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