The University of Southern California, in collaboration with key sponsors, is preparing to launch the FASTER-HIP clinical trial. This study will compare two surgical methods—hip arthroplasty and internal fixation—in cases of femoral neck fractures to determine their effectiveness for early recovery among patients. As of November 2025, recruitment has not yet commenced.
In this article:
- What changed?
- Trial design and focus
- Who should care?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion and key takeaways
- Disclaimer for professionals
- Official announcement link
What changed?
The initiation of the FASTER-HIP trial highlights the growing efforts to optimize surgical outcomes for femoral neck fractures. This study aims to gather comprehensive data by comparing hip arthroplasty, which replaces the damaged joint, with internal fixation procedures designed to preserve the anatomy while stabilizing the fracture. As of now, enrollment has not started, ensuring interested stakeholders have time to prepare for participation opportunities or delve into the study objectives.
Trial design and focus
The FASTER-HIP protocol will investigate the advantages and limitations of two distinct surgical interventions:
- Hip arthroplasty: A surgical technique involving the replacement of the femoral head, commonly used in older adults or cases with severe damage to the joint.
- Internal fixation: A procedure focused on stabilizing the fracture without replacing the joint. This method is often recommended for patients with less severe injuries or younger individuals.
The clinical trial sponsors include the University of Southern California, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, McMaster University, University of Maryland, Baltimore, and Evellere Group. Their combined expertise illustrates the evidence-based and collaborative approach driving FASTER-HIP.
Objectives and metrics
FASTER-HIP seeks to study the early recovery outcomes of patients with femoral neck fractures, focusing specifically on post-surgical mobility, pain management, and complication rates. The results aim to guide regulatory and clinical decisions regarding treatment protocols, particularly for aging populations where fracture-related healthcare burdens are significant.
Who should care?
This trial holds relevance for a variety of stakeholders:
- Surgeons and orthopedics teams: They can gain real-world insights into the comparative performance of the two interventions.
- Clinical teams and healthcare administrators: The study may influence guidelines for managing femoral neck fractures more effectively.
- Medical device regulatory professionals: The trial outcomes could align with the monitoring of surgical device standards for both arthroplasty and fixation tools.
- Patients and caregiver advocacy groups: The inquiry into early recovery metrics offers hope for faster rehabilitation pathways.
Furthermore, incorporating a patient-centered research framework underscores the importance of aligning surgical practices with individual and population health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is internal fixation?
Internal fixation involves surgical stabilization of fractured bones using devices such as screws, plates, or rods.
2. Why compare hip arthroplasty to internal fixation?
Both procedures offer distinct advantages but have different implications for recovery and complications. Comparing them may highlight the best treatment for specific patient groups.
3. When will participation in the trial open?
Recruitment has not yet started, as of November 2025. Updates on enrollment are expected to be shared through official outlets.
4. Are medical devices a component of this trial?
Yes, surgical devices play a key role, particularly in the internal fixation segment.
Conclusion and key takeaways
The FASTER-HIP clinical trial represents a significant step toward refining surgical approaches for femoral neck fractures. By comparing hip arthroplasty with internal fixation procedures, stakeholders can anticipate data-driven insights affecting surgical device use, regulatory alignment, and patient recovery timelines. Interested parties should continue monitoring updates regarding trial progress.
Disclaimer for professionals
This information is intended for professionals in regulatory, clinical, and associated fields. It does not constitute legal advice and should not replace official guidance from governing bodies.
Official announcement link
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07244211?term=medical+device