Which trials have we selected to move forward with?
- Wound irrigation to prevent SSIs
- Coffee to reduce post-operative ileus
- Regional nerve blocks (+/- ice packs) to reduce postoperative pain and narcotic use
- Abscess packing (vs. no packing) for wound healing, pain and fistula formation.
What are the next steps?
We are in the process of establishing steering committees (composed of a content expert, a methodological expert, a resident lead, a patient lead, etc.) and selecting the potential sites for pilot trials to demonstrate the feasibility of this novel approach. We have also begun developing the trial protocols and the research infrastructure to conduct pragmatic clinical trials (i.e., an umbrella research ethics board protocol, creation of data linkages between existing data collection mechanisms, and web-based randomization and integrated consent). We are continuing to search for other potential trial questions and to systematically review the evidence surrounding them.
How can you get involved?
If you would like to get involved with the IMPACTS program in any capacity, please contact paul.karanicolas@sunnybrook.ca and we would be happy to explore possibilities with you!
In May 2019 we held two workshops with members of key stakeholder groups; including patient and family partners, healthcare professionals, and policy-makers to present trial questions and collect feedback about which ones to prioritize for development into clinical trials. The trial questions that were presented and discussed targeted outcomes which included: post-operative delirium, pain, surgical site infections, and quality of life. Participants were asked to assess each of the potential trials in terms of their clinical impact, feasibility, and applicability. The level of engagement and the constructive input that we received was invaluable for informing next steps – the selection of the first set of IMPACTS trials!
