Physical Therapy Wound Care Modalities in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

PROCEDURE

pulsed wound irrigation (PWI)

necrotic wound is irrigated with normal saline (0.9%) with an 8-12 pounds per square inch pressure (PSI) to provide a mechanical force to loosen necrotic tissue for wound healing

PROCEDURE

electrical stimulation (ES)

high volt pulsed current (HVPC) is most effective in wound healing while decreasing risk of adverse skin reactions or mild burns under the electrodes

PROCEDURE

electrical stimulation (ES) and pulsed wound irrigation (PWI)

necrotic wound is irrigated with normal saline (0.9%) with an 8-12 pounds per square inch pressure (PSI) to provide a mechanical force to loosen necrotic tissue for wound healing and high volt pulsed current (HVPC) is most effective in wound healing while decreasing risk of adverse skin reactions or mild burns under the electrodes

Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT) score

Time frame: Baseline

15-item objective measure designed to assess wound status and track healing - related to healing on a 1 (healed) to 5 (severe) scale to create a summative score between 13-65 with lower scores indicating progression towards healing

Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT) score

Time frame: Week 1

15-item objective measure designed to assess wound status and track healing - related to healing on a 1 (healed) to 5 (severe) scale to create a summative score between 13-65 with lower scores indicating progression towards healing

Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT) score

Time frame: Year 1

15-item objective measure designed to assess wound status and track healing - related to healing on a 1 (healed) to 5 (severe) scale to create a summative score between 13-65 with lower scores indicating progression towards healing

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.