'World first' trial to use technology to support MND patients at home
The trial is being led by researchers in Sheffield - and will also involve patients in Leeds
A 'world first' clinical trial supporting people living with motor neurone disease in managing their condition from home is being launched.
It's being launched by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with the University of Sheffield.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is also taking part in the trial.
The trial uses a modem to automatically send data about a patient's breathing back to doctors ensuring that they are getting the most out of Non Invasive Ventilators - which are worn to support breathing.
The ventilation needs regular monitoring and timely intervention to prevent complications and maintain a better quality of life.
£1.7m is being spent on the project, known as the DENIM trial, across 12 areas of England.
Dr Esther Hobson, Honorary Consultant Neurologist at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Senior Lecturer in Neurology at the University of Sheffield, who is leading the trial, said:
“We’re really excited to be leading on this UK-wide study looking at how we can use remote monitoring technology to bring care to people living with MND closer to home."
"Non-invasive ventilation is such an important treatment as it is the only treatment that can help people with MND live longer and feel better.”
Jessica Lee, Director of Research at the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, said: "For people living with motor neuron disease, attending hospital appointments can become increasingly difficult as the condition progresses."
"We therefore warmly welcome this world-first trial in remote monitoring, which has the potential to ease the burden of travel, make care more accessible, and improve quality of life for those affected.”