Children's Orthopaedics (bone) Research

PIC Bone

Who is it for? Children and young people under 16years old with a diagnosis of bone or joint infection, suspected by the treating clinician

Why? The PIC Bone study is a research study led by surgeons, doctors and scientists who are working to improve accuracy and efficiency of diagnosis of bone and joint infection in children and young people.

Approximately 1800 children are admitted yearly to hospitals in England with suspected osteomyelitis (a bone or joint infection).

• Children with acute bone or joint infection present with symptoms of less than two weeks, including pain, reluctance to move the affected limb, raised temperature and malaise. It is important to be able to diagnose bone or joint infections as early as possible to avoid potential bone and joint damage.

• Early differentiation of bone or joint infection from less urgent conditions mimicking the symptoms is critical.

• Diagnosis after history taking, clinical examination, routine blood tests and x-rays can remain uncertain; therefore the study team would like to understand how helpful MRI and ultrasound scans are in achieving a more accurate diagnosis.

To find out more: contact Research Nurse Elsa Mathew 

or visit the PIC Bone website

We may have other orthopaedic studies, which we haven’t been able to list here.

Please ask your Surgeon or Doctor about research that may be suitable for you or your child.

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