NCT07599865 · Thomas Jefferson University
Periprosthetic Joint Infection Bubble Study
(PJI)
What this study is about
Patients with an infected knee replacement will receive their the usual treatment surgical treatment of the infection, with and without additional ultrasound microbubble treatment (randomly divided 50/50 in the active and control groups). Subjects in the active group will receive a local bolus injection of antibiotics and ultrasound-active microbubbles within 24 hours of their revision surgery.
View original scientific description
Patients with an infected knee replacement will receive their standard of care surgical treatment of the infection, with and without additional ultrasound microbubble treatment (randomly divided 50/50 in the active and control groups). Subjects in the active group will receive a local bolus injection of antibiotics and ultrasound-active microbubbles within 24 hours of their revision surgery. The fundamental hypothesis is that a decrease in re-infection rates of at least 24% can be achieved in the active group relative to controls.
Interventions
DRUG
Ultrasound-triggered microbubble destruction with antibiotics
A combination of Definity microbubbles and clinically-relevant antibiotics will in injected into the intraarticular space of the knee the day after revision surgery. Ultrasound will be used to rupture the microbubbles to enhance antibiotic activity.
Primary outcome measures
Re-Infection Rate
Time frame: 2 years
Rate of re-infection within 2 years post-intervention
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
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be medically stable
- If female of child-bearing potential, must have a negative pregnancy test
- Be conscious and able to comply with study procedures
- Have read and signed the IRB-approved Informed Consent form for participating in the study
- For Cohort 1, be scheduled for one- or two-stage exchange arthroplasty revision surgery for PJI of the knee
- For Cohort 2, be scheduled for DAIR revision surgery for PJI of the knee
Exclusion criteria
- Females who are pregnant or nursing
- Patients currently on chemotherapy requiring systemic infusion treatment
- Patients who are medically unstable, patients who are seriously or terminally ill, and patients whose clinical course is unpredictable
- Patients with a history of anaphylactic allergy to perflutren or any other components of Definity
- Patients with a history of failed one- or two-stage revision for infection
- Patients for which placement of a surgical drain is contraindicated
- Patients in protected classes (e.g., prisoners)
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Dallas, Texas
Collaborators
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
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 Jul 31, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations