Improving pathways for wrist injury treatment

Improving Wrist Injury Pathways (I-WIP): a Qualitative Study

Observational University of Oxford · NCT05835440

This study is looking to see if getting MRI scans sooner for people with wrist injuries that look normal on x-rays can help them recover faster and make better use of NHS resources.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Oxford Academic / other
Locations1 site (Oxford, Oxon)
Trial IDNCT05835440 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to address the implementation gap in the use of MRI scans for patients with wrist injuries that appear normal on x-rays. It highlights the importance of early MRI scans as recommended by NICE guidelines, which can lead to quicker recovery for patients and more efficient use of NHS resources. The study will investigate the reasons behind the underutilization of MRI scans in clinical practice and seek to develop effective interventions to improve adherence to these guidelines. By engaging both patients and NHS staff, the study aims to gather insights that could enhance the management of wrist injuries.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 years old who are being treated for a traumatic wrist injury with a normal initial x-ray.

Not a fit: Patients with learning difficulties may not benefit from this study due to challenges in providing informed consent.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment pathways for patients with wrist injuries, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate care.

How similar studies have performed: While the study addresses a known gap in clinical practice, it is based on established guidelines and aims to improve adherence rather than testing a novel treatment approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

- All participants are willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study (including audio recording of interview). Where possible we shall use translation services to enable those who might not adequately understand various forms of information to take part

For staff stakeholders (NHS staff) - Any staff member involved in regular delivery or management of Wrist Injury Pathways (e.g. manager, nurse practitioner, physiotherapist, surgeon, administrative staff, radiologist, radiographer, emergency department clinician). This staff member must be deemed to be integral in the day to day running and/or overall management of the pathway.

For patients:

* Male or female aged over 18 years of age
* Being treated for a traumatic wrist injury with a normal initial X-ray

Exclusion Criteria

- Learning difficulty

Where this trial is running

Oxford, Oxon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Scaphoid FractureWrist Injuries
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.