Development and valorisation of in vitro simulators for orthopaedic research and training.

In vitro joint simulators have the ability to impose controlled motion and physiological loading on cadaveric joints. They provide unprecedented insights into how joint mechanics are affected by orthopaedic procedures, leading to fundamental insights supporting improved patient outcomes. Two such in vitro simulator systems are currently available at KU Leuven: a knee joint simulator and a foot-ankle complex simulator. The primary goal of this project is to merge the knowledge, experience and technology surrounding both simulators into a unified platform in order to expand and strengthen our ongoing valorization activities. As a result, this project will consolidate our close collaborations with industry, clinicians and researchers in our combined effort to improve outcome of surgery. Furthermore, by integrating the platform into our current surgical training and education programs we aim to, for the first time, provide trainees with unique biomechanical feedback, thus greatly improving its effect on surgical quality.

Keywords:orthopeadic research

Disciplines:Laboratory medicine, Palliative care and end-of-life care, Regenerative medicine, Other basic sciences, Other health sciences, Nursing, Other paramedical sciences, Other translational sciences, Other medical and health sciences