IO vs IV Vancomycin for Preventing Infection in Knee Surgery

This trial aims to determine whether administering antibiotics through the bone (intraosseous) or through a vein (intravenous) more effectively prevents infections during knee replacement surgery. The focus is on using vancomycin, a common antibiotic, as part of the procedure. Suitable participants are those undergoing their first total knee replacement without a tourniquet and without certain health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes or a history of knee surgeries. As a Phase 4 trial, this research involves an FDA-approved treatment and seeks to understand its benefits for more patients, offering participants a chance to contribute to improving care for future patients.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on immunosuppressive medications, you may not be eligible to participate.

Research shows that using vancomycin directly in the bone (intraosseous or IO) during knee surgeries is safe. Studies indicate that IO vancomycin matches the safety of the more common intravenous (IV) method. Reports suggest that patients generally tolerate IO vancomycin well.

IV vancomycin, more commonly used, has a strong safety record and is often administered during various surgeries to prevent infections. Both methods aim to reduce infection risk during surgery and have proven effective and safe.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new method of delivering vancomycin to prevent infections during knee surgery. The trial compares intraosseous (IO) administration, where the drug is injected directly into the bone, to the standard intravenous (IV) approach. The IO method is unique because it might allow for faster and more localized delivery of the antibiotic, potentially leading to quicker, more effective infection control with less systemic exposure. This could mean fewer side effects and better outcomes for patients undergoing knee surgery.

This trial will compare intraosseous (IO) vancomycin administration with intravenous (IV) vancomycin administration for preventing infections in knee surgery. Research has shown that IO vancomycin can effectively reduce infections after knee surgery. One study found that it lowered the chance of infection by 69% in total knee replacements. This method offers a safe and effective alternative to the more common IV method. IO administration may deliver the drug more directly to the target area, making this approach promising for preventing infections in knee surgeries.¹³⁶⁷⁸