NCT05976347 · Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Identifying and Treating Depression in the Orthopaedic Trauma Population
What this study is about
The goal of this trial is to pilot a way for orthopaedic surgeons to safely screen for depression and provide treatment for depression with medication. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1.
View original scientific description
The goal of this trial is to pilot a way for orthopaedic surgeons to safely screen for depression and provide treatment for depression with medication. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. What are the outcomes of patients who screen positive for depressive symptoms and are prescribed either an Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). 2.
Interventions
DRUG
Fluoxetine 20 MG
Fluoxetine 20 mg once daily
DRUG
Duloxetine 30 MG
Duloxetine 30 mg once daily
OTHER
Observation
Referral to behavioral health and resources for addressing depressive symptoms
Primary outcome measures
Depressive Symptom Scores
Time frame: Baseline
Improvement in depressive symptoms, indication by either remission (PHQ-9 score \<5) or a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a self-report tool that incorporates DSM-IV depression diagnostic criteria with other leading major depressive symptoms. The too rates the frequency of the symptoms which factors into the scoring severity index. PHQ-9 scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression.
Depressive Symptom Scores
Time frame: Month 3
Improvement in depressive symptoms, indication by either remission (PHQ-9 score \<5) or a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a self-report tool that incorporates DSM-IV depression diagnostic criteria with other leading major depressive symptoms. The too rates the frequency of the symptoms which factors into the scoring severity index. PHQ-9 scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression.
Depressive Symptom Scores
Time frame: Month 6
Improvement in depressive symptoms, indication by either remission (PHQ-9 score \<5) or a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a self-report tool that incorporates DSM-IV depression diagnostic criteria with other leading major depressive symptoms. The too rates the frequency of the symptoms which factors into the scoring severity index. PHQ-9 scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression.
Depressive Symptom Scores
Time frame: Month 9
Improvement in depressive symptoms, indication by either remission (PHQ-9 score \<5) or a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a self-report tool that incorporates DSM-IV depression diagnostic criteria with other leading major depressive symptoms. The too rates the frequency of the symptoms which factors into the scoring severity index. PHQ-9 scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression.
Depressive Symptom Scores
Time frame: Year 1
Improvement in depressive symptoms, indication by either remission (PHQ-9 score \<5) or a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a self-report tool that incorporates DSM-IV depression diagnostic criteria with other leading major depressive symptoms. The too rates the frequency of the symptoms which factors into the scoring severity index. PHQ-9 scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depression.
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
- Patients presenting to an Orthopaedic trauma clinic for the first time following operative extremity fracture or any pelvis fracture
- A score of greater than or equal to 5 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at first post- operative visit
- Age 18 or older
- Speak English or Spanish
Exclusion criteria
- Currently taking medication to treat depression
- Contraindication/allergy to one of the study medications
- Bipolar disorder of psychotic disorder
- Endorse suicidal ideation
Where
- Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations