Does continuous arterial blood pressure monitoring during surgery benefit patients who are high risk, particularly those who are older and living with frailty?
This study explores a new way to monitor blood pressure during surgery for broken hips, especially in older, frailer patients. Many people experience low blood pressure during surgery, which can be harmful to vital organs like the heart, kidneys, or brain. Doctors usually check blood pressure every few minutes with a cuff. This study compares that to continuous monitoring using a small tube in the wrist. The aim is to see if this continuous method helps doctors act quicker to prevent or treat low blood pressure. Participants will be randomly placed into one of the two monitoring groups. We want to find out if continuous monitoring leads to better health outcomes and fewer problems for patients after surgery. This research could help improve care for many future patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you have surgery, your blood pressure can sometimes drop too low. This can be especially risky for older people or those who are a bit frailer, as it can potentially cause problems for important organs like your heart, kidneys, or brain. Normally, during surgery, nurses and doctors check your blood pressure every few minutes using a cuff around your arm, just like at a regular doctor's visit.
This study is investigating a different way to monitor blood pressure called 'continuous monitoring'. This involves putting a very thin tube, like a drip, into an artery in your wrist. This tube then constantly measures your blood pressure, giving doctors a real-time update rather than just a reading every few minutes. The idea is that if doctors can see changes in blood pressure immediately, they might be able to react faster to prevent it from getting too low or to treat it quickly if it does.
However, it's not currently clear if this continuous monitoring method is truly better for patients than the standard cuff method. This study aims to find an answer to this question, particularly for people aged 65 and over who are having surgery for a broken hip and are considered frail. We want to understand if continuous monitoring during surgery leads to better health and fewer complications for these patients.
Key takeaways
- A UK study for older, frail patients having broken hip surgery.
- Compares continuous wrist blood pressure monitoring with standard cuff checks.
- Aims to see if continuous monitoring prevents harmful low blood pressure.
- Could improve future care but offers no direct personal benefits.
- Small risks from the wrist monitor, carefully managed.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people who are 65 years old or older. You'll also need to be considered 'frail' by your doctor, which means little everyday tasks might be a bit harder for you.
The study is specifically for people who need surgery for a broken hip. If you're planning to have this type of surgery, you might be able to take part.
You won't be able to join if you or your doctors have already planned for you to have continuous blood pressure monitoring, or very frequent cuff checks, as part of your usual care. You also can't take part if you decide you don't want to.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 65 years old or older?
- Are you needing surgery for a broken hip?
- Has your doctor assessed you as being frail?
- Are you not already planned to have continuous blood pressure monitoring during your surgery?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups, like flipping a coin. One group will have their blood pressure checked continuously during your hip surgery using a small tube (drip) in your wrist. The other group will have their blood pressure checked in the usual way, with an arm cuff at regular intervals.
During and after your surgery, the research team will keep a close eye on your blood pressure. They'll also check for any medical problems that might happen and ask you questions about your quality of life as you recover. There are no extra visits or medications involved beyond your standard care; it's mostly about how your blood pressure is monitored during your single surgery. The total time you'll be involved with the study will be focused around your surgery and immediate recovery.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyMiddlesbrough, England
Common questions
What is 'frailty'?
Frailty means you might find everyday activities a bit harder and could be more vulnerable to health changes. Your doctor will assess this.
What is the difference between the two monitoring methods?
One method uses a small tube in your wrist for constant blood pressure readings during surgery. The other uses a cuff on your arm every few minutes, like a standard check.
Will I know which group I'm in?
No, you will be randomly assigned to one of the groups, like drawing lots, to ensure the study results are fair and unbiased.
What kind of surgery is this for?
This study is specifically for people having surgery for a broken hip (often called a 'hip fracture').
Who is paying for this research?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK, a government organisation that supports health research.
How to find out more
Andrew Kane
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.