This year, we successfully completed recruitment for the ATOMIC Ears Study, which looks at a new treatment for children undergoing grommet surgery for chronic build-up of middle ear fluid or recurrent middle ear infections. This study assesses the safety and efficacy of Dornase alfa, a medication currently used for patients with cystic fibrosis, which has also shown to break down the sticky glue in the ears of children needing grommets.
ATOMIC Ears Study
We have now reached the recruitment target of 120 children aged six months - five years. These children will be closely monitored for the two years following grommet surgery with regular ear checks and hearing tests.
All our ATOMIC families look forward to their visits - they enjoy the opportunity to see their grommets within their own ears on the computer screen and playing games with the audiologists during their hearing tests. Two of our wonderful participants, Elijah and Melanie, and their mums kindly took the time to answer a few questions for us. Elijah has recently completed his study participation, and Melanie is nearing the end of hers!
What was the best part about participating in the study?
Elijah's Mum:
"The best part about the study was that we were able to keep a close eye on Elijah’s ear health through audiology and the ear, nose and throat specialists. Elijah loved seeing the study team and showing off his grommets which he calls his ‘grow nuts’ "
Melanie's Mum:
"I think the best part about being part of the study is that continued check up on Melanie’s ears to make sure everything is still going well and also being a part of research so that we can contribute our bit to potentially help other children in the future."
Given the opportunity, would you participate in this study or similar again?
Elijah's Mum:
We would 100% do a similar study. My son has come so far with his health over the past 2 years, we have no regrets!
Melanie's Mum:
I would definitely take part in a research study again, it has been so helpful.
ATOMIC participant Melanie