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Hormone produced during pregnancy repurposed to treat painful joint condition

Researchers repurpose pregnancy hormone relaxin to alleviate symptoms of arthrofibrosis, a painful and debilitating joint condition, restoring range of motion and improving tissue health in an animal model. The findings suggest that relaxin could offer relief for millions of people affected by the disease.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2019

Virtual reality improves tolerance of anaesthesia procedures and reduces need for intravenous sedation by at least 50%

A new study finds that virtual reality hypnosis distraction (VRHD) can reduce anxiety and procedure-related pain during locoregional anaesthesia for orthopaedic procedures. The randomised trial shows a significant reduction in the need for intravenous sedation, with 25% of patients requiring no further sedation.

Low income is a risk factor for 'catastrophic' amputation after knee joint replacement

A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that low-income patients are at higher risk of above-knee amputation after periprosthetic joint infection. The researchers analyzed data from a nationally representative hospital database and found that patients living in areas with lower incomes were 58% more likely...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateApr 30, 2019

Understanding global trauma systems -- OTA International looks at current status, future needs

A supplement to OTA International journal summarizes current status and future needs of national trauma systems in lower- and higher-income countries. The report highlights the importance of well-developed trauma systems in improving patient outcomes and reducing trauma-related mortality.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOTA International The Open Access Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma·DateMar 13, 2019

For adult scoliosis, surgery, other treatments are viable options

A new study suggests that surgery is a viable option for adults with scoliosis, but nonoperative treatments can also be effective. The extent of disability was found to be the most important factor in deciding whether to operate, with patients who had adequate quality-of-life benefiting from nonoperative treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 20, 2019

Golf is most common among older male surgeons

The study found that at least 4% of doctors play golf, with male doctors and surgical specialists spending the most time on the course. Male doctors between 61-70 were most likely to play golf, while female doctors aged 31-35 were least likely.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 10, 2018

Treating spinal pain with replacement discs made of 'engineered living tissue' moves closer to reality

A multidisciplinary team at Penn successfully demonstrated the feasibility of 'engineered living tissue' disc replacement in a large animal model. The study showed that bioengineered spinal discs can restore native disc structure, biology, and mechanical function, offering new hope for treating spinal pain.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 21, 2018

University of Miami Miller School of Medicine -- managing common ankle fractures

The article discusses the challenges in managing common ankle fractures, particularly those above and below the level of the syndesmosis. Researchers recommend assessing medial clear space on radiographs and patient pain ratings to guide management. They also emphasize the importance of dynamic imaging with stress radiographs to detect...

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateOct 30, 2018

Study sheds light on atypical periprosthetic femoral fractures

A study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that 8.3% of patients with total hip replacements experienced atypical femoral fractures, a type of rare stress fracture. The researchers also discovered a strong association between bisphosphonate use and the risk of these fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateOct 3, 2018