WILLIAMSPORT — UPMC Williamsport is participating in a national research trial studying new ways to manage pain safely for trauma patients, bringing advanced clinical research typically found in large academic centers directly to the region.

The Prehospital Analgesia Intervention (PAIN) Trial, led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, is evaluating whether low‒dose ketamine may be a safer alternative to fentanyl for trauma patients experiencing pain and early signs of shock. The medications are administered by Emergency Medical Services while patients are being transported to the hospital.

“Participation in this trial reflects our commitment to innovation and to delivering the most advanced, evidence-based care close to home,” said Michael Gerst, D.O., interim vice president, Medical Affairs, and chief medical officer, Emergency Services, UPMC North Central Pa. “By taking part, we’re not only caring for today’s patients, but helping improve trauma care for the future.”

The multi‒center study is enrolling nearly 1,000 trauma patients nationwide through the LITES Network, a research collaboration funded by the U.S. Department of Defense. Findings from the trial may help inform future national guidelines for trauma care for both civilian and military patients.

Fentanyl is a highly effective pain medication commonly used in emergency care, but in some trauma patients it can lower blood pressure and suppress breathing. Ketamine, an anesthetic that relieves pain without depressing respiratory function, may reduce those risks for certain patients. Both fentanyl and ketamine are already approved and widely used by EMS providers.

Participation in the study does not prevent patients from receiving pain medication, and care is never delayed.

Community members may opt out of the study by contacting the research team at 1‒800‒664‒0557 or emailing PAINStudy@edc.pitt.edu to request a “NO PAIN Study” bracelet. Additional information is available at ClinicalTrials.gov under study ID NCT05437575.