Clinical trials

40

Search and review clinical trials. Use filters to narrow results by trial status, phase, treatment, biological sex and sponsor.

Condition / disease
Location
Status: Recruiting

Development of a Pharmacodynamic Model for Propofol in Older Adults

The goal of this pharmacodynamic study is to develop a model for Propofol administration for older adults (\>65 years). The main objective is to create a model based on a new pharmacodynamic parameter, derived from frontal electroencephalogram (EEG), to admininster Propofol in older adults. With this new model, the investigators aim to: * Evaluate the relationship between the plasmatic concentration, described by the Eleveld pharmacokinetic model, versus the effect of the drug represented with a new parameter derived from the intraoperative frontal EEG. * To validate the predictive ability of Eleveld's pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model, based on the bispectral index (BIS), compared to the new model based on a parameter derived from intraoperative frontal EEG. Participants will be asked to answer preoperative questionnaires, receive a Propofol intravenous infusion concomitantly with continuous BIS and EEG monitoring, and to be evaluated for clinical sings of loss and return of consciousness.

Participants needed: 36
Trial details
Age: 65-99Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 26, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients undergoing non-cardiac elective surgery requiring general anesthesia [+1]

Patients undergoing emergency surgery [+5]

Status: Recruiting

Simulation-based Training for Ultrasound-guided Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block

The goal of this study is to evaluate whether remote asynchronous feedback is non-inferior to direct synchronous feedback during simulation-based training for ultrasound-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block performance. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does asynchronous feedback achieve technical skill acquisition outcomes comparable to direct synchronous feedback? Can asynchronous feedback optimize teaching resources without compromising training quality? Researchers will compare two feedback modalities within a simulation-based training program for deliberate practice of ultrasound-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block techniques. Participants will: Receive training with either direct synchronous feedback or remote asynchronous feedback Perform simulation-based deliberate practice sessions Be assessed using validated instruments for technical skill performance

Participants needed: 40
Trial details
Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 22, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Medicine students

No exclusion Criteria

Status: Not yet recruiting

Clinical Characteristics of Prilocaine for Spinal Anesthesia in Ambulatory Surgery: Clinical Profile and Efficacy

Introduction: Hyperbaric prilocaine is widely used internationally for outpatient orthopedic and perineal surgery because of its favorable recovery profile compared with other intermediate-acting local anesthetics, such as bupivacaine, and its lower incidence of transient neurologic symptoms compared with lidocaine. Recently approved for intrathecal use in Chile, prilocaine offers advantages including shorter onset time, faster motor recovery, and earlier return of bladder function. Objective: To describe the clinical use of intrathecal prilocaine in outpatient knee arthroscopy, including the characteristics of sensory and motor block, incidence of anesthesia-related complications, and hospital readmissions. The study hypothesizes that prilocaine enables rapid postoperative recovery, early ambulation, and a low incidence of complications such as urinary retention, nausea and vomiting, and hypotension. Methods: Following institutional ethics committee approval and written informed consent, a prospective descriptive study will be conducted in 50 ASA physical status I-II patients undergoing ambulatory knee arthroscopy. Spinal anesthesia will be performed using 40 mg of 2% prilocaine under standard monitoring, with supplemental oxygen and midazolam sedation. Surgical type and duration will be recorded. Outcomes will include sensory and motor block duration, time to ambulation, time to first voiding, time to discharge, and the occurrence of complications such as urinary retention, nausea and vomiting, and hypotension during recovery. As this is a convenience sample, no formal sample size calculation has been performed. Data will be analyzed descriptively and reported as means and standard deviations, without inferential statistical testing.

Participants needed: 50
Trial details
Age: 18-75Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 22, 2026Duration: 1 Day
Eligibility criteria

outpatient knee arthroscopic surgery

pediatric patients [+1]

Status: Not yet recruiting

My Wellness Begins With the Steps!

This study evaluates the effect of street signs inviting to use the conventional stairs instead of escalators at a subway station without and with active pop music.

Participants needed: 2,000
Trial details
Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 10, 2026Locations: 1Duration: 1 Day
Eligibility criteria

All subway users

None

Status: Not yet recruiting

Incidence and Risk Factors of Postoperative Chronic Pain in Patients Who Have Undergone Hallux Valgus Surgery

The goal of this observational study is to learn about the incidence and risk factors of postoperative chronic pain in adult patients who have undergone Hallux Valgus surgery (between january 2021 and december 2024). This will be assesed through scales and medical records information. The main questions to be answered are: * How many patients who have undergone Hallux Valgus surgery are experiencing postoperative chronic pain. * What factors are there present in those who do experience chronic pain after surgery. After accepting the informed consent, participants will be asked to answer a Brief Pain Inventory Scale and a Risk Factor Questionnaire for Postoperative Chronic Pain.

Participants needed: 350
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 28, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients who underwent Hallux Valgus surgery at various centers within the UC Ch...

Patients who had difficulty responding to follow-up from the UC Christus health...

Status: Not yet recruiting

Elucidating the Neural Correlates of Anesthesia-induced Unconsciousness in Neonates

This study will try to elucidate the neural responses of neonatal patients to surgery-level propofol infusions during induction and maintenance of anesthesia. The main objective is to elucidate the EEG patterns of neural activity that can reliably reflect the level of hypnotic depth in full term neonates undergoing propofol anesthesia based on the classification of EEG into states and the characterization of discrete neonatal EEG events.

Participants needed: 64
Trial details
Age: Up to 28Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 22, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Full term neonates (37 - 42 weeks of gestational age) [+2]

Neurological surgeries [+4]

Status: Recruiting

Effect of Continuous Prolonged Prone Position Versus Intermittent Daily Prone Position in ARDS

Prone position (placing the patient on his abdomen) has been shown to be an effective intervention to decrease mortality in adults connected to mechanical ventilation for moderate to severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Patients may require one or more sessions of prone position. However, the optimal duration of prone sessions is unknown. The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if applying prone position in prolonged sessions (\> 48 hours - prolonged prone position) is more effective than applying it in daily sessions (16 to 24 hours - intermittent prone position). The trial will also learn about the safety of prolonged prone position compared to intermittent prone position. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does prolonged prone position increase survival compared to intermittent prone position in participants with moderate to severe ARDS ? * How does prolonged prone position compare to intermittent prone position in terms of medical problems associated to prone position ? Researchers will compare prolonged versus intermittent prone position to see which approach is better to treat moderate to severe ARDS. Participants will: * Receive prone position either in prolonged (\> 48 hours) or daily (16 to 24 hours) sessions during the first 7 days * Be followed for up to 90 days to assess their clinical evolution

Participants needed: 780
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 18, 2026Locations: 38
Eligibility criteria

Age ≥ 18 years [+6]

Contraindications for prone positioning such as intracranial pressure > 20 mmHg,... [+4]

Status: Not yet recruiting

PRIORITY Study in Cervical Cancer

The PRIORITY study is a prospective, multicenter observational study designed to evaluate an integrated diagnostic model combining extended molecular self-sampling and digital colposcopy supported by telemedicine for the prioritization of women at risk of cervical cancer. The study aims to assess the diagnostic performance, concordance, and clinical utility of this integrated approach in real-world settings, as well as its impact on diagnostic timeliness and patient navigation across different levels of care. Participants will undergo standard-of-care evaluation, and data will be collected on molecular test results, colposcopic findings, diagnostic outcomes, and time intervals within the care pathway. No interventions are assigned as part of the study protocol. The findings are expected to inform scalable strategies to improve early detection and optimize diagnostic pathways for cervical cancer, particularly in settings with structural and geographic barriers to timely care.

Participants needed: 700
Trial details
Age: 30-65Biological sex: FemaleType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 18, 2026Locations: 8
Eligibility criteria

Women aged 30 to 65 years [+3]

Previous diagnosis of cervical cancer [+3]

Status: Recruiting

Modular Intervention for Depression Study

The goal of this psychotherapy clinical trial is to evaluate whether a algorithm-based personalized modular psychotherapy is more effective than usual individual psychotherapy in treating major depressive disorder complicated by personality dysfunction and/or complex trauma in adults aged 18 to 65 receiving care in the Chilean public mental health system. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does algorithm-based modular psychotherapy lead to greater clinically significant reduction and remission of depressive symptoms compared to usual psychotherapy? * Does algorithm-based modular psychotherapy lead to greater improvement in emotional regulation, interpersonal functioning, and self-related functioning, including changes observed in daily life? Researchers will compare algorithm-based modular psychotherapy to usual individual psychotherapy provided in public community mental health centers to see if the modular, personalized approach results in better clinical outcomes, stronger therapeutic alliance, and higher treatment satisfaction. Participants will: * Be randomly assigned to receive either algorithm-based modular psychotherapy or usual individual psychotherapy * Attend weekly individual psychotherapy sessions * Complete structured diagnostic interviews and self-report questionnaires before, during, and after treatment * Provide brief daily reports on mood, emotions, and interpersonal experiences using a smartphone before and after treatment

Participants needed: 150
Trial details
Age: 18-65Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 12, 2026Locations: 5
Eligibility criteria

Positive diagnosis on the MINI diagnostic interview, and [+7]

Acute suicide risk requiring immediate intensive intervention, as assessed by th... [+11]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Assessing the Efficacy of a High-Dose Lidocaine-Tetracaine Cream for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if the topical anesthetic cream works to treat neuropathic chronic pain in older adults who have not found sufficient relief undergoing other pain treatments and/or medications. The safety of this drug has already been tested in other studies. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does the anesthetic cream lower the pain of participants? * Can the participants return to daily activities that they have quit due to chronic pain? * What medical problems do participants have when using this cream? Researchers will compare the anesthetic cream to a placebo (a look-alike substance that contains no drug) to see if it works to treat neuropathic chronic pain. Participants will: * Use the anesthetic cream or a placebo every day for 14 days * Visit the clinic once every 2 weeks for checkups and tests * Keep a diary of their symptoms and the number of times they use the anesthetic cream. This study is divided into two phases, separated by 30 days. * Phase 1: Application of the active cream (Lidocaine 23% / Tetracaine 7%) twice daily: once in the morning upon waking and once at night before bed. * Phase 2: Application of the placebo cream under the exact same conditions. The order of administration (active/placebo) will be randomly assigned. Procedure: Participants will sign the informed consent form. A baseline evaluation will be conducted, assessing VAS (Visual Analog Scale) score, functionality, and quality of life. The use of other medications will be recorded. The creams will be applied at home with weekly telephone follow-up and daily patient self-reporting. Evaluations will be conducted on day 14 of each phase. Follow-up controls will occur one and two months after the treatment is suspended. Adherence and adverse effects will also be logged.

Participants needed: 30
Trial details
Phase: Phase 1, Phase 2Age: 60+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: May 7, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Age 60 years or older. [+3]

Known hypersensitivity (allergy) to lidocaine, tetracaine, or any excipients (in... [+3]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Artificial Intelligence vs. Automated Messaging for Continuous Regional Analgesia Follow-up

Effective postoperative analgesia is critical for patient recovery, satisfaction, and the reduction of hospital stay duration. Continuous peripheral nerve blocks (CPNB) via catheter placement represent a cornerstone in achieving these objectives. Traditionally, follow-up for these patients has relied on standardized telephone protocols conducted by trained personnel. Original previous research in 2024 demonstrated that an automated text-messaging platform was feasible and maintained high patient satisfaction, it resulted in a significantly higher rate of unscheduled patient-initiated inquiries (28.3% vs. 6.4%) compared to traditional phone calls, likely due to a lack of adaptive response capabilities. Objective: This study aims to evaluate an enhanced technological iteration of our follow-up platform. By integrating an Artificial Intelligence (AI) interface trained on specialized clinical protocols, the new system is designed to provide automated, personalized and adaptive recommendations to patients. Methods and Intervention: The study will compare the effectiveness of this AI-driven platform against the previous version of the non-adaptive automated messaging system. The primary outcome is to compare the number of patient-initiated inquiries (re-consultations). Secondary outcomes include patient satisfaction, adherence to the follow-up protocol, and response rates from postoperative days one through three. Impact: The investigators hypothesize that the integration of AI will optimize human resources and improve patient autonomy without compromising safety or satisfaction, ultimately providing a scalable model for postoperative regional analgesia monitoring.

Participants needed: 166
Trial details
Age: 18-75Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Apr 3, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients aged between 18 and 75 years. [+5]

Inability to understand or follow the digital monitoring protocol. [+1]

Status: Recruiting

Impact of Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) on Respiratory Effort: A Pilot Study in Healthy Adults

This pilot randomized crossover study will evaluate the acute effects of immersive virtual reality (IVR) on respiratory effort during submaximal exercise in healthy adults. Dyspnea and increased respiratory effort are influenced not only by mechanical and metabolic factors, but also by emotional and central neural inputs. IVR has shown potential to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and modulate physiological responses, but its direct effect on respiratory effort has not been adequately studied. Healthy adults will complete two experimental exercise sessions: one session with IVR and one session without IVR, in randomized order. In both conditions, participants will perform a 6-minute constant-load cycling test at a submaximal workload individualized from a prior incremental exercise test. Respiratory effort will be assessed continuously using esophageal pressure monitoring. Additional measurements will include ventilatory variables, perceived dyspnea, acute state anxiety, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and heart rate variability. The primary aim is to determine whether IVR reduces respiratory effort compared with the control condition. This pilot study is intended to provide physiological evidence on the potential role of IVR as a non-pharmacological strategy to modulate respiratory effort and dyspnea, and to inform future research in clinical populations.

Participants needed: 10
Trial details
Age: 18-40Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Mar 27, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Healthy adults aged 18-40 years [+2]

Current respiratory symptoms or acute illness [+6]

Status: Recruiting

AI-Assisted Analgesia Copilot System

The primary objective of the SEASCAPE project is to design, develop, and to apply a clinical implementation tool of a machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI)-based co-pilot system for the real-time monitoring and control of nociception during general anesthesia (GA). The ultimate clinical purpose is to optimize individualized pain management by achieving precise titration of intravenous opioids (specifically remifentanil), thereby minimizing the incidence of over- and under-dosing. This optimization is projected to enhance patient outcomes, reduce opioid-related complications, and improve overall cost-effectiveness of anesthetic procedures. The main scientific question guiding this work is: Can a novel algorithm be generated and validated to provide superior analytical precision for analgesic management by reliably differentiating genuine nociceptive responses from confounding physiological variables-such as inadequate neuromuscular blockade or changes in depth of anesthesia-thereby significantly improving the clinical decision-making framework for intraoperative nociception control? This project addresses the recognized challenge in anesthesiology: defining an objective measure to quantify nociception and antinociception during GA. Study Population: Patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures requiring general anesthesia (GA). Existing Intervention: The standard anesthetic regimen includes continuous intravenous infusion of the remifentanil for intraoperative analgesia, typically governed by a Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) system utilizing a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) model (Eleveld TCI model). Project Focus: The research seeks to improve the accuracy and efficacy of this existing analgesic strategy by integrating a multivariate patient data stream with the newly developed SEASCAPE co-pilot AI. This aims to refine the remifentanil dose predictions beyond the current TCI model's capabilities, personalized system.

Participants needed: 150
Trial details
Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Mar 9, 2026Locations: 2Duration: 5 Weeks
Eligibility criteria

Patients scheduled for elective surgery with general anesthesia. [+1]

Patients undergoing emergency surgery. [+5]

Status: Recruiting

Impact of PEEP on Respiratory Effort During Assisted Ventilation

Assisted mechanical ventilation is widely used to preserve diaphragmatic activity and improve lung aeration in patients with acute respiratory failure. However, during assisted ventilation, excessive inspiratory effort may develop and contribute to lung injury, diaphragmatic overload, and patient self-inflicted lung injury. Optimizing ventilator settings to modulate respiratory effort therefore represents a major physiological and clinical challenge. Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is a key determinant of lung recruitment and respiratory system mechanics and may influence inspiratory effort by modifying lung volume, compliance, and respiratory drive. Despite its widespread use, PEEP titration in clinical practice is still mainly guided by oxygenation parameters, while its direct effects on inspiratory effort during assisted mechanical ventilation remain insufficiently characterized. This physiological randomized crossover study aims to evaluate the effect of four predefined levels of positive end-expiratory pressure (0, 5, 10, and 15 cmH₂O) on the respiratory system and inspiratory effort in adult patients receiving assisted mechanical ventilation. Patients will be exposed to each PEEP level in randomized order, with stabilization and washout periods between conditions, while ventilatory support settings other than PEEP are kept constant.

Participants needed: 12
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Feb 27, 2026Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Age ≥18 years. [+5]

Contraindication to esophageal balloon placement (if applicable). [+6]

Status: Recruiting

Efficacy of PIMUN by Reducing Intermittent Hypoxia Events

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if the use of PIMUN(medical device) works to reduce the intermittent hypoxemia of 24-34 weeks of birth gestational age babies. . It will also learn about the safety of the use of PIMUN. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does PIMUN lower the time of oxygen saturation under 90%? What medical problems do participants have using PIMUN? Researchers will compare the use of PIMUN during 48 hours to 48 hours of usual treatments (not using PIMUN). Participants will: Use/ or not use of PIMUN for a 48 hours period- randomly assigned. Regional brain oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring at the first day of each 48 hours period. 4-6 hours of polysomnography at the second day of each intervention. Plasma and urine stress oxygen metabolites at the end of each 48-hours intervention.

Participants needed: 20
Trial details
Age: Up to 30Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Feb 9, 2026Locations: 2
Eligibility criteria

Preterm infants with a gestational age at birth <34 weeks [+2]

Currently receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) [+5]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Effect of Dexamethasone on Plasma Levels of Bupivacaine and Dexamethasone After a Single-injection Interscalene Nerve Block.

Recent studies have highlighted the comparative advantages of perineural dexamethasone, particularly regarding its safety profile and its ability to prolong analgesia in various peripheral nerve blocks. A recent systematic review demonstrated that perineural administration of dexamethasone significantly extends the duration of analgesia compared to intravenous administration. The mechanism of action of perineural dexamethasone remains unclear. Moreover, there is a lack of research comparing the systemic absorption of local anesthetics administered perineurally with or without dexamethasone, and the systemic absorption and bioavailability of dexamethasone when used as a perineural adjuvant have not been studied. Objective: This study aims to compare plasma concentrations of bupivacaine following a single-shot interscalene block with dexamethasone administered either perineurally or intravenously. Methodology: A prospective, randomized, double-blind trial will be conducted involving 40 patients undergoing shoulder surgery requiring a single-shot interscalene block. Each patient will receive 20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine combined with 8 mg of dexamethasone administered either perineurally or intravenously. Venous blood samples (5 mL) will be collected at 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 120, and 240 minutes post-block, and one sample at discharge, to measure plasma concentrations of both enantiomers of bupivacaine (D(+)-bupivacaine and L(-)-bupivacaine) and dexamethasone. Outcomes: The study will compare plasma levels of bupivacaine between groups, characterize the pharmacokinetics of bupivacaine and dexamethasone, and assess block duration and opioid consumption.

Participants needed: 40
Trial details
Age: 18-90Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jan 7, 2026
Eligibility criteria

Not listed

Status: Not yet recruiting

Retention of Vernix Caseosa in Newborns for Primary Prevention of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that usually begins in infancy and causes significant itching, discomfort, and sleep disturbance. It affects up to one in five children worldwide and represents a growing public-health problem. Research has shown that genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development, especially those related to skin-barrier integrity and the skin microbiome during early life. Preventing AD before it starts-known as primary prevention-has become an important goal. Vernix caseosa is a naturally occurring, white, creamy substance that covers the skin of newborns at birth. It forms during the last trimester of pregnancy and plays a key role in protecting and hydrating the baby's skin before and after birth. Vernix contains water, lipids, and proteins with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite these potential benefits, in many hospitals vernix is routinely removed soon after delivery as part of standard newborn cleaning or bathing practices. However, there is little scientific evidence to support early removal, and some studies suggest that keeping vernix on the skin for longer may help the newborn's skin barrier function and reduce colonization by harmful bacteria. The PROTEGO Study (Post-Partum Retention of Vernix Caseosa for Primary Prevention of Atopic Dermatitis, Guarding Skin Integrity and Fostering a Healthy Microbiome) is a randomized controlled clinical trial designed to test whether delaying the removal of vernix caseosa after birth can help prevent atopic dermatitis and improve skin health during the first year of life. A total of 1,383 mother-infant pairs will be enrolled from three maternity hospitals in Santiago, Chile. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: 1. Retention group: Vernix caseosa will be left on the skin and allowed to dry naturally; the baby's first bath will be delayed according to the study protocol. 2. Removal group: Vernix will be removed following current hospital practice using gentle cleaning with water and oil or petroleum jelly shortly after birth. All infants will be followed for 12 months with regular clinical assessments, standardized skin evaluations, and collection of biological samples. The main outcome will be the cumulative incidence of atopic dermatitis, diagnosed using modified UK Working Party criteria and/or Hanifin \& Rajka criteria at 12 months of age. Secondary outcomes include skin-barrier measurements (transepidermal water loss, skin pH, and natural moisturizing factor), the composition of the skin microbiome, and early signs of allergic or infectious diseases. This study will provide high-quality evidence on whether preserving vernix caseosa after birth is a simple, safe, cost-effective and natural strategy to strengthen the newborn's skin barrier and reduce the risk of eczema and related conditions. The results could help improve newborn-care practices and promote skin health in early life worldwide.

Participants needed: 1,383
Trial details
Age: 0+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jan 12, 2026Locations: 2
Eligibility criteria

pregnant mother aged 18 and older, who is able to provide informed consent for p... [+2]

birthweight <2000 g [+6]

Status: Recruiting

Window Prophylaxis for Pediatric Tuberculosis Prevention Trial

The goal of this cluster-randomized controlled trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT) administered during the "window period" to prevent new Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections in children and adolescents. The main question it aims to answer is: Can immediate TPT reduce the incidence of IGRA conversions in children and adolescents who are household contacts of a newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patient? Researchers will compare the incidence of new tuberculosis infections-measured by IGRA conversion at 12 weeks-between participants who receive immediate TPT while still uninfected (baseline IGRA-negative) and those who receive standard care, in which TPT is not offered to IGRA-negative contacts. Participants will be: 1. Tested for M. tuberculosis infection using the Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA), specifically the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus, at enrollment and after 12 weeks of follow-up. 2. Take weekly isoniazid and rifapentine for 12 weeks if: 1. They are assigned to the intervention arm (regardless of baseline IGRA result), or 2. They are in the control arm and test IGRA-positive at baseline. Additionally, participants from the control arm who experience an IGRA conversion at 12 weeks (following the primary outcome assessment) will also receive TPT, as per standard of care.

Participants needed: 647
Trial details
Age: 5-17Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Dec 29, 2025Locations: 13
Eligibility criteria

Household contacts of patient (index case) with a new diagnosis of microbiologic... [+1]

Suspected active tuberculosis in initial assessment (clinical or radiological) [+9]

Status: Not yet recruiting

Effectiveness of Retrolaminar Block in Lumbar Spine Fusion With Multimodal Analgesia

This randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided retrolaminar block in reducing postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing lumbar spine fusion surgery under multimodal analgesia. The participants will: * Be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a retrolaminar block with 0.25% bupivacaine plus epinephrine or a sham block (normal saline) prior to surgical incision. * Receive standardized multimodal analgesia. * Have follow-up by the Acute Pain Unit during the first 3 days, to assess opioid consumption (morphine) in 24 hours, pain intensity measured by Numeric Rating Scale, quality of recovery assessed by the QoR-15 questionnaire, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications.

Participants needed: 44
Trial details
Age: 18-75Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Dec 18, 2025
Eligibility criteria

Adults aged 18-75 years, scheduled for lumbar spine fusion surgery by a trauma t... [+2]

History of chronic use of strong or weak opioids for more than 3 months. [+12]

Status: Recruiting

Metabolic Effects of Linoleic Acid-Rich Oil Compared to a Blend Oil in Adults With Insulin Resistance

Linoleic acid (LA), the predominant omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid in human diets, has been associated with improved lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity compared with saturated fats. However, its role in metabolic health remains debated due to the limited number of well-controlled intervention studies. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the metabolic effects of an LA-rich oil compared with a blended oil in adults with insulin resistance. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a daily supplement of LA-rich oil or a control blend oil for 8 weeks, while maintaining their usual diet and lifestyle. The primary outcome is the change in insulin resistance, assessed by the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Secondary outcomes include changes in fasting glucose, insulin, lipid profile, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, and body composition. The study is designed as a single-blind, parallel-group intervention conducted at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile. The results are expected to clarify the effects of increased dietary linoleic acid intake on insulin sensitivity and metabolic risk factors, contributing to the ongoing debate about the role of omega-6 fatty acids in cardiometabolic health.

Participants needed: 120
Trial details
Age: 20-60Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Dec 17, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Men and women aged 20 to 60 years. [+2]

Diabetes diagnosis. [+8]

Status: Recruiting

Efficacy of a Photosynthetic Dermal Matrix for the Treatment of Full-Thickness Skin Wounds

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether the incorporation of photosynthetic microalgae into scaffolds for dermal regeneration improves healing outcomes in adult patients with acute and cronic full-thickness skin wounds. The primary objectives are to determine whether the use of photosynthetic scaffolds enhances wound granulation and reduces infection rates compared to standard dermal regeneration scaffolds. Additionally, the quality of the regenerated skin will be assessed and compared between treatment types. Participants will: * Receive treatment with either standard dermal regeneration scaffolds or identical scaffolds containing photosynthetic microalgae. These treatments will be applied either to randomly assigned areas of the same wound or to different wounds on the same patient. * Undergo regular follow-up assessments to monitor wound healing progress, infection rates, graft integration, and the qualiy of the regenerated skin. * Complete self-assessment questionnaires regarding their experience and perceived outcomes.

Participants needed: 20
Trial details
Phase: Phase 2Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Sep 5, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Presence of full-thickness skin wounds. [+3]

History of a psychiatric disorder that may impair decision-making or adherence t... [+3]

Status: Recruiting

Intraoperative Detection of Breast Cancer by Electrosurgical Gas Analysis and Artificial Intelligence

The aim of this clinical trial is to assess the feasibility of training a device capable of distinguishing various gases emitted by tissues cauterized by an electrosurgical unit during a breast cancer resection surgery. The patients to be enrolled will be women over 18 years old diagnosed with breast cancer who are indicated for conservative breast cancer resection surgery as treatment. The main questions to be answered are: The specificity and sensitivity of the device in detecting margins compromised with tumor cells in resection surgeries. Evaluate the applicability of the device in breast cancer surgeries for real-time detection of margins. Evaluate the differences in the pattern of gases emitted in tumor cells vs normal cells. By consenting, the study patients will allow the investigative team to access the clinical record, results of images, post-surgical biopsies, recording of the surgery while preserving the patient's anonymity, and the installation of the gas detection device. This device does not alter the flow of the surgery and does not add additional risk to it.

Participants needed: 30
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: FemaleType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Aug 20, 2025Locations: 2Duration: 3 Years
Eligibility criteria

Histologically confirmed diagnosis of malignant breast cancer [+2]

Pregnant or lactating women [+2]

Status: Recruiting

Patient's Database: Prepare for Your Surgery Program

Frailty is a multidimensional syndrome that predominantly affects older people and people with long-term treatments such as cancer and chronic pain. This results in an increased risk of disability, reduced resistance and greater vulnerability to stressors. These factors culminate in worse postoperative outcomes, including higher rates of complications and mortality. With the current demographic shift towards an aging population in Latin America and Chile, the prevalence of frailty among surgical patients is increasing. Despite the clear association between frailty and adverse postoperative effects, in Chile there are few centers that routinely perform objective preoperative frailty assessment before to surgery. This is due to logistical challenges, the need for specialized training, and assessment tools. As a result, frailty remains an underestimated syndrome in the perioperative setting. Various interventions have been proposed to improve the care of fragile surgical patients. Prehabilitation, a multidisciplinary program designed to prepare patients for surgery and improve their resilience to surgical stress, has emerged as a promising intervention. Recent studies indicate that prehabilitation may lead to shorter hospital length of stay (LOS) and fewer complications. Recognizing the vital role that frailty plays in surgical outcomes and the paucity of research on prehabilitation, a prehabilitation or timely presurgical conditioning program (Prepare for Your Surgery Program) has been implemented at our center. This proposal seeks to optimize the patient before a surgical intervention in order to reduce frailty and complications, thus improving recovery and medium-term results. The program consists of interventions 4 to 6 weeks before surgery focused on: nursing assessment, screening and follow-up, geriatric and/or internal medicine assessment and intervention, physiotherapy assessment and intervention, nutrition assessment and intervention, psychological assessment and intervention, and preoperative anesthesiology intervention. For this purpose, it has been proposed to create a prospective database of patients from the Prepare for Your Surgery Program, who undergo elective surgery at Hospital Clinico Red Salud UC-Christus.

Participants needed: 120
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 10, 2025Locations: 2Duration: 3 Months
Eligibility criteria

Patients referred to the Prepare for Your Surgery program [+2]

Patients who will not undergo elective surgery at Hospital Clínico Red de Salud... [+2]

Status: Recruiting

Non-pharmacological Prevention of POD in Frailty Elderly Undergoing Elective Surgery Applied by Nursing Teams

The increase in the population over 60 years of age who could receive surgery due to changes in life expectancy and advances in surgical and anesthetic techniques. Likewise, elderly people (EP) may have a higher risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality compared to young people, with frailty being one of the risk factors that increases adverse outcomes in this period and increases the probability of developing syndromes such as postoperative delirium (POD). Assessment of frailty in EP prior to surgery is not routine, so it is unknown how many frail and/or pre-frail EP undergo surgery in health care systems. There is an association between being frail and developing greater delirium and/or postoperative cognitive deficit, which in summary translates into an increase in perioperative morbidity and mortality. For the prevention of POD, there are pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures that seek to promote orientation with respect to their environment and make it as familiar as possible, stimulate early aspects of memory and thinking skills, as well as promote sleep using environmental hygiene measures. In Chile, protocols of non-pharmacological measures have been proposed by occupational therapy teams, which have had positive results in reducing POD in frail elderly patients. These measures are temporal-spatial reorientation, physical mobilization, correction of sensory deficits, environmental management, sleep protocol, and reduction of anticholinergic drugs with statistically significant results in the reduction of POD. In accordance with the above, the objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of non-pharmacological measures applied by the nursing team in reducing the incidence of POD during the post-surgical period in fragile and pre-fragile EP undergoing elective non-cardiac surgeries. It is expected that in the end, frail and pre-frail EP who receive non-pharmacological interventions by the nursing team will present a lower incidence of POD at 24 hours compared to those who receive traditional care.

Participants needed: 400
Trial details
Age: 65+Biological sex: AllType: InterventionalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 10, 2025Locations: 1
Eligibility criteria

Patients older than 65 years [+3]

Neurosurgical patients [+3]

Status: Recruiting

multipaRameter mOnitoring systeM for sedAtion iNThe ICu

The administration of sedation in Intensive Care Units (ICU) is a vital and complex task, essential for the well-being of critically ill patients. Proper dosing is crucial, as both under-dosing and overdosing have adverse consequences for patients, including risks such as accidental extubation, ventilator disconnections, delirium, prolonged ventilation, ICU stays, and even increased mortality. Monitoring sedation levels is essential to maintain a balance in sedative administration. Clinical scales (RASS/SAS) are currently used as the reference method, but they have limitations. These scales may be inadequate when the patient is unresponsive or when neuromuscular blockers are used. An alternative is electroencephalography (EEG)-based monitors, though they also have limitations in accurately representing the level of hypnosis. The proposal is to develop an advanced multiparameter system called ROMANTIC, which utilizes machine learning algorithms to monitor sedation status continuously. The aim is for this system to surpass current techniques and provide a more accurate determination of sedation levels. ROMANTIC would incorporate a variety of variables, demographic, pharmacological, hemodynamic, respiratory, and EEG data, to predict sedation status in three categories: under-dosing, appropriate dosing, and overdosing. With ROMANTIC, clinical staff (users) are expected to be able to determine sedation levels more quickly and accurately, reducing patients' wake-up times and possibly decreasing the incidence of delirium. In the long term, this could result in fewer ICU bed days, less time on mechanical ventilation, cost savings, and reduced complications. At the end of the project, the goal is to have a prototype model or software that allows non-specialized staff (users) to quickly determine sedation levels in the ICU. This machine learning-based model targets hospitals with ICUs and mechanical ventilation to offer more efficient and cost-effective clinical care. ROMANTIC seeks to innovate in sedation monitoring, providing a more advanced and precise tool for the care of critically ill patients (beneficiaries) in the ICU.

Participants needed: 80
Trial details
Age: 18+Biological sex: AllType: ObservationalSponsor: Pontificia Universidad Catolica de ChileUpdated: Jun 8, 2025Locations: 2Duration: 2 Weeks
Eligibility criteria

Patients admitted to adult critical care units [+3]

Patients with neurological pathology as the cause of mechanical ventilation (inc... [+7]