Volume Ultrasound of Hips in Infants 2 (VUSHI2)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluation of the use of Volume Ultrasound Imaging in Neonatal Hip Screening for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
IRAS ID
283270
Contact name
Philip Henman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 2 months, 12 days
Research summary
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a condition where the hip does not form properly in infants. If it is found and treated early, then most children go on to have normal hip joints as they grow. If it is not treated then it can lead to hip pain, limping and eventually arthritis. In the UK, all newborn babies have a 'hip click test' within 72 hours of birth. If the hip is unstable, they will be referred for an ultrasound scan before they are 2 weeks old. If there is a family history of DDH, or the baby has a breech birth, they are also sent for a scan at 6 weeks old. It is thought that approximately one-third of cases are missed using this method. However, it is not possible to scan all infants, because the current scans require a specialist sonographer and take about 30 minutes each.
Volume Ultrasound is a method of scanning that takes 3D images in a matter of seconds. A pilot study has shown that this scanner can produce images that are equivalent to the routine scan. This study aims to determine if a clinician with minimal training in ultrasound can take an equivalent image to a specialist using the volume ultrasound. This study will also develop artificial intelligence (AI) software that can detect abnormal scans. If minimally trained clinicians can take accurate scans which can be interpreted accurately by AI technology, then it opens up the possibility of all neonates being screened for DDH and fewer cases being missed and presenting late.REC name
South Central - Berkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/SC/0201
Date of REC Opinion
5 Jul 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion