81 - Research in Orthopedic Surgery

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of orthopedic research using animal models, with emphasis on approaches that have dominated the field for the past 5–10 years. Some of the most successful orthopedic procedures, such as joint replacement, tendon healing, fracture treatment, use of biomaterials, and osteoporosis, to name a few, have relied heavily on animal experiments. There are, however, many orthopedic problems in humans that have not been solved because only relatively advanced stages of the disease can be studied and no proper control group is available. Furthermore, the basic mechanisms of some diseases are still unknown because of lack of animal models. Tissue engineering and gene therapy in orthopedics are rapidly emerging as individual disciplines, and the use of animal models will be essential before human clinical trials can be initiated. Orthopedic surgeons interested in pursuing an idea or hypothesis must first consider the appropriate animal model and understand interspecies differences. This means acquiring sound knowledge not only of the anatomy, biology (including response to different anesthetics and analgesics), biomechanics, and physiology of the various animals, but their general husbandry requirements, including appropriate nutrition and housing, as well.