NCT06903819 · Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Ketamine for Pain, Opioid Use, and Mental Health in Orthopedic Trauma Patients
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if ketamine, given during surgery, can help improve recovery for adults with serious orthopedic trauma. The study will test whether ketamine reduces pain, lowers the need for opioids, and improves mental health outcomes like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if ketamine, given during surgery, can help improve recovery for adults with serious orthopedic trauma. The study will test whether ketamine reduces pain, lowers the need for opioids, and improves mental health outcomes like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Interventions
DRUG
Ketamine
Participants in this group will receive a single intravenous (IV) dose of ketamine at 0.5 mg/kg, administered within 30 minutes of anesthesia induction during surgical fixation for musculoskeletal trauma. The purpose of the intervention is to evaluate ketamine's effect on postoperative pain, opioid consumption, and psychological recovery, including symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
DRUG
standard general anesthesia
Participants in this group will receive standard general anesthesia during surgical fixation for musculoskeletal trauma. No ketamine will be administered. This group serves as a comparison to evaluate the effects of ketamine on pain, opioid use, and psychological recovery.
Primary outcome measures
Pain Intensity (VAS)
Time frame: 1-7 days, 2-3 weeks (±1 week), 6 weeks (±2 weeks), 3 months (±3 weeks), and 6 months (±5 weeks) postoperatively.
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), a validated 0-100 continuous scale (or 0-10 categorical equivalent). Higher scores indicate greater pain. This outcome evaluates whether intraoperative ketamine reduces postoperative pain compared to standard anesthesia.
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
- Adults aged 18-65
- Undergoing acute operative fixation for musculoskeletal trauma
- Injury Severity Score (ISS) greater than 15
- Ability to provide informed consent (or consent provided by a legally authorized representative)
Exclusion criteria
- Age under 18 or over 65
- Use of ketamine for preoperative or postoperative sedation
- Known allergy or contraindication to ketamine
- Prior unsuccessful ketamine therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) or PTSD
- Severe psychiatric conditions or psychotic features
- History of dementia or glaucoma
- Currently engaged in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy or PTSD psychotherapy started within the past 3 months
Where
- Lubbock, Texas
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 Mar 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations