Actively Recruiting
Comparison of Cryoablation of Intercostal Nerves to Erector Spinae Plane Catheters in Patients With Rib Fractures
Led by University of Minnesota · Updated on 2026-02-17
48
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating pain control methods in patients with rib fractures by comparing cryoablation of the intercostal nerves to the use of an erector spinae plane (ESP) catheter. This Phase 4 study aims to find out which method provides better pain relief seven days after the procedure and assesses other important recovery outcomes up to 30 days post-procedure. Participants with rib fractures are randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group receives cryoablation involving an injection of lidocaine and ultrasound-guided freezing of the intercostal nerves, while the other group receives an ESP catheter with an initial local anesthetic bolus followed by a continuous infusion. Both treatments are delivered under ultrasound guidance to manage pain. During the study, researchers will monitor patients' maximum pain levels on the seventh day after treatment and track opioid use, functional pain scores, hospital stay length, time to first walking, ICU admissions, mechanical ventilation need, and lung function over 30 days. Participants will be closely observed to assess these outcomes, providing a comprehensive view of recovery and pain management effectiveness.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Cryo Rib Fracture Study
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients who are over 18 years old
- Patients who have more than one rib fractured
You will not qualify if you...
- Patients who have an exclusion to regional anesthesia
- Patients who are pregnant via self-report or pregnancy test if applicable
- Non-English speakers
- Patients who have cold urticaria
- Patients with bilateral rib fractures
- Patients currently intubated
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to 30 days post procedure
Participants receive either cryoablation of intercostal nerves or an erector spinae plane catheter for pain management of rib fractures.
Multiple visits during hospital stay and follow-up assessments up to 30 days
Duration - Up to 30 days post procedure
Participants are monitored for pain scores, opioid use, functional pain scores, pulmonary function, and recovery outcomes after treatment.
Follow-up visits up to 30 days after procedure
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55414
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
C
Candace Nelson
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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