NNUH top recruiter for study into repeated kneecap dislocations
Research teams at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) are celebrating after becoming the top recruiters to a study into treatment for people who have repeated kneecap (patella) dislocations.
REPPORT is a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded randomised controlled trial comparing operative versus non-operative care for people after repeated patella dislocations. This condition is a major physical and psychological challenge for individuals who experience it.
In total, REPPORT recruited the required 279 participants. The trial, based at Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, was delivered across 33 hospitals in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. The study opened in Norwich, one of the first centres, in October 2023 and NNUH were the lead recruiter for the whole trial.
Led by Professor Iain McNamara, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Physiotherapists Nathan Hunt as Co-Principle Investigators, with Helena Daniell as Associate Principle Investigator, the team screened over 60 patients, recruiting 26 in total.
Professor Iain McNamara, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, said: “Historically orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists have been uncertain about whether they should offer this group of patients an operation or physiotherapy, with little previous research in the area. This trial aimed to address this and to determine what is the best approach for people affected by this knee condition.
“In NNUH we treat patients referred from all over the UK with kneecap dislocations. We have a dedicated clinic with a surgeon and physiotherapists, supported by a research team, who work together to provide a specialist care that is not found in many other units.”
Professor Toby Smith, Co-Chief Investigator, said: “REPPORT has been a great success at NNUH. I would like to congratulate Iain, Nathan, Tracey and the whole team. This is another example of fantastic team working across Physiotherapy and Trauma and Orthopaedics at NNUH in delivering high-quality, clinically important trials to the people of Norfolk.”
Dr Bernard Brett, Medical Director at NNUH, added: “Well done to our orthopaedic team on such successful recruitment. It is a great example of how well we can deliver research studies for the benefit of our patients.”