NCT06065202 · Duke University
Personalized Nutrition to Improve Recovery in Trauma
(SeND Home)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine if a particular method of providing nutrition improves the outcomes of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) who have undergone abdominal surgery following trauma and would require nutrition delivered via the bloodstream (called total parenteral nutrition or TPN).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine if a particular method of providing nutrition improves the outcomes of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) who have undergone abdominal surgery following trauma and would require nutrition delivered via the bloodstream (called total parenteral nutrition or TPN). The nutrition method being tested is a structured nutrition delivery plan, called the SeND Home pathway, that involves TPN, oral nutrition supplements, and the use of a device (called an indirect calorimeter or IC) to measure calorie needs. Participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to the SeND Home program or standard of care nutrition. In the SeND Home program, participants will receive TPN, followed by oral nutrition supplements (shakes) for 4 weeks after discharge. The control group will follow standard of care nutrition delivery that begins during ICU stay and concludes at hospital discharge. Participants in both groups will undergo non-invasive tests that measure how much energy (calories) they are using, body composition, and muscle mass and complete walking and strength tests, and surveys about quality of life.
Interventions
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Nutrition Supplement
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) will be administered within 72 hours of abdominal surgery. Nutritional shakes will be started with a liquid diet and given 3 times a day. This will continue for 4 weeks after discharge.
Primary outcome measures
Change in six-minute walk distance (6 MWD)
Time frame: 3 months
Change in 6MWD from baseline to day 14 or hospital discharge will be compared between the two study arms
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 15+ years old
- Penetrating abdominal trauma requiring emergent major abdominal surgery
- Admitted to the surgical ICU
- Not expected to receive oral nutrition for 72 hours or more
Exclusion criteria
- Patients who are unable to ambulate at baseline
- Expected withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment within 48 hours
- Positive pregnancy test for women of child bearing potential.
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
Collaborators
United States Department of Defense, Baxter Healthcare Corporation
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations