A randomised trial of follow up timing in otitis externa management
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A randomised trial on the effect of the length of time from initial assessment to follow up review in the management of patients referred to an ENT department with a diagnosis of acute otitis externa
IRAS ID
133482
Contact name
Annakan Navaratnam
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust
Research summary
This study investigates the effect of the length of time from initial assessment to follow up review on the success of management of patients referred to an ENT department with a diagnosis of otitis externa (outer ear infection). Patients referred to the ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery) department for review will be assessed and treatment started by the on call ENT doctor according to a protocol. Patients will then be randomised to be followed up after either 3 days or 7 days. We will investigate whether there is any difference in resolution of symptoms, number of follow up appointments, patient satisfaction and complication rate between to the two groups. We will then use this information to devise a protocol for management of otitis externa.
REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/1007
Date of REC Opinion
19 Sep 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion