This is a website about the SCIENCE study to help you decide if you want to take part
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What is the SCIENCE Study?

SCIENCE is a study is trying to improve the treatment of children who have a broken bone in the elbow called an ‘epicondyle fracture’.

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What is being tested?

This study, which is being led by the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, will compare the two commonly used treatments in a group of 334 children. .

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Why has my child been asked to take part?

Your child has got this type of broken bone.

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Does my child have to take part?

You are free to decide if you want your child to take part

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What does the study involve?

What does the study involve?

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What treatment will my child receive?

Your child will either be treated with a cast or splint, or with an operation.

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What are the possible benifits, risks, side effects, discomforts and/or inconveniences of taking part?

Each of these routinely used treatments has potential advantages and disadvantages.

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Can my child stop taking part in the study?

You and your child can leave the study at any time.

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Will we be informed of the results of the study?

The results will be de-identified and available to you online.

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What is being tested?

This study, which is being led by the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, will compare the two commonly used treatments in a group of 334 children.

  • Resting the arm in plaster cast for up to 4 weeks, to allow it to heal by itself.
  • Surgery to fix the bone, usually with a screw and resting the arm in a splint or cast for up to 4 weeks.

All patients will then be followed up in hospital, and get rehabilitation according to the usual practice of the treating hospital, which will include advice about moving the arm, and may include physiotherapy.

It is important for you to understand why the study is being done, and what it will involve. Please take time to read the information on this website carefully. Discuss it with friends and relatives or health care worker if you wish, the research team is ready to answer any questions you have.

What is the background to the study?

Dan, SCIENCE study doctor