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

Why is it happening?

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

What is being tested?

This study will compare the two commonly used treatments used across the UK.

Why has my child been asked to take part?

Your child has got this type of broken bone.

Does my child have to take part?

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

What will happen if my child takes part?

What treatment will my child receive?

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

What are the risks of taking part?

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

What will happen if my child wants to leave the study?

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

Will we be informed of the results of the study?

Will we be informed of the results of the study?

The results will be anonymised and available to you online.

Why is it happening?

SCIENCE is a study is trying to improve the treatment of children who have a broken bone in the elbow called an ‘epicondyle fracture’. About one thousand children sustain this injury in the UK each year.

Doctors treat these injuries in different ways. Half of doctors advise to rest the elbow in a cast or splint and allow it to heal by itself, whilst the other half advise surgery to fix the bone. Despite the number of these injuries, doctors are not sure whether one way of treating them is better than the other because it has never been researched.

Why is the study happening?

Dan, SCIENCE study doctor