NCT03765567 · The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Placement of Antibiotic Powder in Wounds During the Emergency Room
(POWDER)
What this study is about
This is the first forward-looking controlled study to determine whether the topical application of vancomycin powder reduces infection-related complications when applied to open fracture injuries in the acute emergency department setting.
View original scientific description
This is the first prospective controlled study to determine whether the topical application of vancomycin powder reduces infection-related complications when applied to open fracture injuries in the acute emergency department setting.
Interventions
DRUG
Vancomycin
2 vials of Vancomycin 1g powder will be applied topically to the open fracture wound site.
Primary outcome measures
Deep-space infection rate at prophylaxis site
Time frame: Within one year of injury date
The percentage of participants who develop an infection of the study open fracture requiring post-operative surgical intervention within one year of injury.
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
- Subject or Legal Authorized Representative (LAR) is willing and able to provide written informed consent.
- Adult 18 years of age or older.
- Open fracture of the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia, and/or fibula.
- 24 hours or less has elapsed from the estimated time of injury to study intervention.
Exclusion criteria
- Time from injury \> 24 hours.
- Subjects who have received acute operative care (e.g., washout in the operating room or fixation) of the open fracture at an outside facility.
- Subject or LAR speaks neither English nor Spanish. Note that subjects that are unable to participate in the consent process (e.g. intoxication, poly-trauma, will be enrolled into the observational arm where passive data collection will occur).
- High-potency antibiotic powder or solution applied to the wound prior to enrollment. Simple ointment (i.e., bacitracin ointment) or antibiotic-impregnated dressings will be permitted.
- Documented allergies or serious reactions
Where
- San Antonio, Texas
Collaborators
United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, San Antonio Military Medical Center
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 Aug 1, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations