New 'Ultrasound for the Ear' could slash unnecessary antibiotics in kids

NCT ID NCT05353569

Recruiting now Diagnosis Sponsor: Medical College of Wisconsin Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a new imaging technology called optical coherence tomography (OCT) can help doctors more accurately diagnose ear infections in children. Researchers will compare standard ear exams with OCT-enhanced exams in 235 children. The goal is to see if OCT reduces unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions or surgeries for middle ear problems.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: OCT device (optical coherence tomography)
What this could lead to: If successful, OCT could become a standard tool to more accurately diagnose ear infections in children, reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and surgeries.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage diagnostic study, not a treatment trial. The device may not prove significantly better than current methods, and results may not apply to all children.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

infectious otitis media otitis media otitis media with effusion

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OTITIS MEDIA OTITIS MEDIA ACUTE OTITIS MEDIA WITH EFFUSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Wisconsin ENT Clinic
RECRUITING

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, 53226, United States
Children's Wisconsin Urgent Care Clinics
RECRUITING

Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, 53226, United States

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