SPINEGO

Re-integration of a skilled researcher through an intra-European collaboration on pathology-specific bone cements

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'This project aims to re-integrate a skilled researcher and strengthen the European research network in biomedical engineering.The optimal outcome is new treatment options for vertebral fractures in order to reduce the pain and improve the stability of the spine.Bone cements are frequently used to treat vertebral fractures, but may cause adjacent fractures due to their high stiffness.This is particularly an issue during their increasingly frequent application to osteoporotic fractures,where the surrounding bone is of poor quality.Furthermore,other diseases which affect the bone quality (on a focal or generalised level) indicate the need for different cement properties.This project aims to develop and evaluate pathology-specific bone cements.The first objective is to develop a target profile through imaging and mechanical testing of vertebrae.Secondly,cements of various properties will be developed and tested using standard protocols.Their spreading characteristics will also be evaluated using surrogate models.Finally,their efficiency will be assessed through in vitro testing on human vertebral bone. The researcher has a strong background in both bone cements and spinal research. She has successfully completed various research projects and been the lead author on international publications.The project will be implemented through a collaboration between the previous–University of Leeds-and the new-Uppsala University-host.Substantial advantages will be drawn by all parties through the synergy created between an expertise in biomaterials (Uppsala) and biomechanics (Leeds) and both hosts will benefit from a reciprocal knowledge transfer.Both institutions have a strong international reputation and excellent facilities which will assist in a timely completion of the project.It is expected that this opportunity will allow the researcher to build a strong research profile in the spinal biomedical field and ultimately become a competent European research leader of the future.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Painful vertebral compression fractures of the spinal cord are commonly treated using vertebroplasty when other treatments prove ineffective. Sadly, incidence of new fractures after the procedure has been linked to bone cement in the original fracture site.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure.

Poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a material with high stiffness and good biocompatibility.

As such, it is the material of choice for bone cements that are used in procedures like vertebroplasty to stabilise the fracture site.

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterised by low bone density and mass.

Unfortunately, PMMA has a high stiffness and can increase overall stiffness of the vertebra when used on osteoporotic patients during vertebroplasty.

This can cause adjacent fractures in patients with a lower bone stiffness than PMMA.The EU-funded SPINEGO project investigated the biomechanics involved and developed novel bone cements with lower stiffness to reduce such fracture risks.

These bone cements will also have to be biocompatible and biostable with some similar properties to PMMA for faster clinical acceptance and regulatory approvals.SPINEGO successfully developed a PMMA-based bone cement with a lower stiffness that is closer to osteoporotic bone with good in vitro biocompatibility and handling properties.

Ex vivo tests on human bone showed improved stability at the fracture site with no corresponding increase in overall stiffness in the vertebra.Through this Marie Curie reintegration grant, long term research collaboration has been facilitated between several institutions.

EU funding has been made available for further research in biomaterials and biomechanics over the next five years in these institutions..Commercialisation of the new bone cement should improve outcomes in osteoporosis patients following vertebroplasty and improve their quality of life.