Investigating bone mineral density of amputees over time

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Investigating bone mineral density of amputees over time to assess any changes that may occur due to under or over-loading

  • IRAS ID

    317831

  • Contact name

    Anthony Bull

  • Contact email

    a.bull@imperial.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Research Governance and Integrity Team, Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    2 years, 0 months, 1 days

  • Research summary

    The study looks to understand how the bone mineral density of amputees changes over time and is affected by the introduction of new prosthetics. Understanding bone mineral density is important because good bone stock is required for loading and to avoid complications such as bone fracture. To monitor the changes in bone mineral density of amputees this study looks to take DEXA scans of amputees over a period of 2 years at 6-month intervals. For participants that are eligible and who consent, DEXA will be carried out at St Mary’s Hospital. An appropriate imaging professional will be always present. Study participants would be expected to attend sessions at St Mary’s Hospital Imaging department. Any risks related to the imaging processes will be discussed with each participant on arrival. The risk of radiation will be discussed with the participant. A DEXA scan uses low dose x-ray, in which a much lower level of radiation is used than standard x-ray, and thus is considered a safe procedure. The scan will be used to determine the bone mineral density of relevant bones and is expected to take no more than 1 hour per session.

  • REC name

    London - Chelsea Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    23/LO/0985

  • Date of REC Opinion

    16 Jan 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion