Clinical and cost effectiveness of mechanical support for severe ankle sprains: Design of a randomised controlled trial in the emergency department

SE Lamb, RA Nakash, EJ Withers, M Clark, JL Marsh, Sue Wilson, [No Value] [No Value], A Szczepura, JR Dale, Matthew Cooke

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    21 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND: The optimal management for severe sprains (Grades II and III) of the lateral ligament complex of the ankle is unclear. The aims of this randomised controlled trial are to estimate (1) the clinical effectiveness of three methods of providing mechanical support to the ankle (below knee cast, Aircast brace and Bledsoe boot) in comparison to Tubigrip, and (2) to compare the cost of each strategy, including subsequent health care costs. METHODS/DESIGN: Six hundred and fifty people with a diagnosis of severe sprain are being identified through emergency departments. The study has been designed to complement routine practice in the emergency setting. Outcomes are recovery of mobility (primary outcome) and usual activity, residual symptoms and need for further medical, rehabilitation or surgical treatment. Parallel economic and qualitative studies are being conducted to aid interpretation of the results and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the interventions. DISCUSSION: This paper highlights the design, methods and operational aspects of a clinical trial of acute injury management in the emergency department.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1
    Number of pages1
    JournalBMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
    Volume6
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2005

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