Plain-English translation of NCT04048304 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing whether patients with bacterial spine infections need to take antibiotics for the full traditional length of time after surgery, or whether a shorter course works just as well. After you have surgery to clean out the infection, you'll be randomly assigned to take antibiotics for either a shorter or longer period, depending on whether a surgical implant was left in your spine. The study wants to see if shorter treatment can work without increasing the risk of infection coming back.
Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics for several months after spine infection surgery, but this long treatment can have side effects and cost. This trial is investigating whether patients can safely take the medication for a shorter time without the infection returning.
After your spine surgery, you will be randomly assigned to take antibiotics for either a shorter or longer period—the exact length depends on whether an implant was left in your spine. You'll take your prescribed antibiotics at home and return for follow-up appointments over at least 12 months to make sure the infection doesn't come back. The study team will monitor your recovery and check for any signs that the infection has returned.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 31, 2026 · Not medical advice
Switzerland
Sponsor
Balgrist University Hospital
Enrollment target
~271 participants
Started
July 2019
Primary completion
February 2025
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in September 2026.