Magnesium Biomaterialsprovides a succinct up-to-date overview of Magnesium biomaterial development, critically examines the types of in vitro experiments that may be performed, and investigates the numerous variables that affect Magnesium biodegradation when undertaking these experiments. This work also discusses the direction in which current Magnesium biomaterial development is heading and the necessary steps for future development of this field. Information is drawn from numerous multi-disciplinary sources to provide a coherent and critical overview. Magnesium Biomaterialsis ideal for researchers in thearea of bio-Mg, companies interested in exploring their own alloys, and for researchers working with other biodegradable materials who are seeking a cross-platform understanding of material performance."

Radiologists, orthopedic and neurological surgeons present the different minimally invasive methods. Peripheral nerve problems and problems concerning differential diagnosis in special situations such as between radicular and peripheral nerve trunk lesions are discussed, pinpointing the significance of different diagnostic tools. Minimally invasive techniques, utilized nowadays to minimize bone demolition, scarring and risk of recurrence are analyzed. Microdiscectomy is compared with the results of intradiscal techniques, and new methods are discussed facing problems such as epidural fibrotisation, microinstability, osteoporotic or neoplastic or posttraumatic vertebral lesions.

A research project entitled Biomechanics of Structure and Function of Living Cells, Tissues, and Organs was launched in Japan in 1992. This data book presents the original, up-to-date information resulting from the research project, supplemented by some of the important basic data published previously. The aim of collecting the information is to offer accurate and useful data on the mechanical properties of living materials to biomechanical scientists, biomedical engineers, medical scientists, and clinicians. The data are presented in graphs and tables (one type of data per page) arranged in an easily accessible manner, along with details of the origin of the material and the experimental method. Together with its two companion volumes, "Biomechanics: " "Functional Adaptation and Remodeling" and "Computational" "Biomechanics," the Data Book on Mechanical Properties of Living Cells, Tissues, and Organs is a timely and valuable contribution to the rapidly growing field of biomechanics.

Posttraumatic stump formation and replantation of the severed limb are both reconstructive plastic operations which may lead to the improvement or destruction of a patient's lifestyle. For the primary attending surgeon, the decision whether to undertake such an operation depends on the patient's clinical condition, the operational circumstances, the psychological and social aspects and, last but not least, on the surgeon's own abilities. This monograph is designed as a synopsis of the great number of patho-physiological parameters and surgical and rehabilitational aspects which must be considered in the analysis of complications in major limb replantation. In addition, basic information about the key role of ischemic myopathy and microangiopathy is supplied to encourage further experimental investigations.

Bones and joints are always under mechanical loading a key concept in understanding bone metabolism. Among the most common diseases of bones and joints in the elderly are osteoporosis and joint osteoarthritis. Dynamic changes in mechanical loading give rise to problems resulting in stenosis of the spinal column at the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels. Mechanical loading also accelerates joint destruction caused by inflammation from such conditions as chronic rheumatoid arthritis. An understanding of mechanical loading is essential therefore to clinicians, basic researchers, and engineers working with bones and joints. Providing up-to-date research and clinical findings, the contents of this volume are from the papers, symposia, and special lectures presented at the 12th Annual Meeting of the Orthopaedic Research Meeting of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association in Niigata, in October 1997.

There is a large and rapidly growing body of literature on the importance of mag nesium in biochemical and physiological processes. There is also much evidence that magnesium deficiency, alone and in combination with agents that interfere with its utilization, is associated with functional and structural abnormalities of mem branes, cells, organs, and systems. The manifestations of the changes caused by magnesium deficiency depend upon its extent and duration and on variable factors. Among the conditions that increase the risk of magnesium deficiency are (1) meta bolic factors that affect the absorption, distribution, and excretion of this mineral; (2) disease and therapy; (3) physiologic states that increase requirements for nutrients; and (4) nutritional imbalances. Excesses of nutrients that interfere with the absorption or increase the excretion of magnesium-such as fat, phosphate, sugar, and vitamin D-can contribute to long-lasting relative magnesium deficiency. All have been implicated in several of the diseases considered in this book. Whether their influence on the need for magnesium is a common denominator remains to be investigated further."

This monograph analyses all aspects related to the etiopathogenesis, pathomorphology, diagnosis and treatment of lumbar disc herniation. It includes 24 chapters, over 500 illustrations, partly in colour, and 2800 bibliographic entries, going from the historical to the most recent ones. Five chapters are dedicated to biological and pathomorphologic aspects both of lumbar disc herniation and the conditions most often associated with herniation. The etiopathogenesis is analysed in the light of the most significant and recent studies. Five chapters deal with the clinical presentation and diagnostic tests in an extremely wide and detailed way. Large space is reserved to conservative management. The chapters on invasive treatments and on the results and complications of surgery define the advantages and limitations of the old and new percutaneous or surgical treatments. Two chapters are dedicated to surgical management of patients with spinal conditions associated with herniation, and two other deal with the surgical failure. This monograph is aimed at satisfying the requirements of both experts and young doctors. Some chapters are of particular interest to the spine specialist, whilst others are useful to the novice to acquire a general knowledge of the subject.

Gene therapy for inflammatory diseases is a new , burgeoning field of medicine. Edited by the undisputed pioneers of this area of research, this volume is the first devoted to its topic. It contains thirteen chapters, each written by leaders in their respective fields, that summarize the state of the art in developing novel, gene based treatments for inflammatory diseases. As well as providing an introduction to the basic concepts of gene therapy and the use of naked DNA approaches, the book describes the advances that have been made in applying them to arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, Sjogren`s syndrome and transplantation.One chapter is devoted to discussing the first human clinical trials that apply gene therapy to the treatment of an inflammatory disease. As well as providing novel therapeutic approaches, gene therapy facilitates the development of new and improved animal models of disease; a chapter describing these advances is also included. As an up-to-date, timely book written by th

In bone surgery it is essential to compress fractures interfragmentarily in order to make them resistant to the tensile force of muscles and the force resulting from acceleration and deceleration. This can be best achieved by the use of cable tension bands as a traction mechanism. The cable tension band is - in terms of stability of fractures - far superior to the conventional rigid cerclage wire which has been widely used in osteosynthesis for over 100 years. The author explains the biomechanics of the tension band in detail. Theoretical findings are confirmed by clinical test results. All osteosynthetic techniques which can be carried out with cables are described giving details of operation instructions. Errors and risks are always pointed out. A reference book and operative manual at a time.

Dr. Heinonen reviews and critically evaluates the scientific literature on the biological role of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi ) published from 1940 to the end of 1999. He describes and classifies all known biochemical reactions that produce Ppi; describes and evaluates all published methods used in biological Ppi; and compiles and critically evaluates information on the concentration of PPi (with the conclusion that, contrary to common belief, PPi exists throughout the living world in rather high concentrations). Many reactions in which PPi is used as a biochemical energy source instead of ATP have been described in recent decades, especially in bacteria, protists, and plants. These reactions are evaluated from the bioenergetic and regulatory points of view. Also considered is the possible role of PPi as a source of biochemical energy in the primitive phases of life, before ATP. Data is presented on the regulatory role of PPi in living systems, such as activities of enzymes, fidelity of syntheses of macromolecules, and proliferation of cells. PPi may also regulate the formation and dissolution of bone as well as pathologic calcification of soft tissues and the formation of urinary stones. The formation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the extracellular fluids of joints cause the disease called pseudogout. Biological Role of Inorganic Pyrophosphate book is a unique and invaluable source of references (about 1120) and summarized data for professionals who study or plan to study the role of PPi in living systems. Many different branches of science (biochemistry, microbiology, bioenergetics, plant physiology, parasitology, evolution, orthopedics, rheumatology) have involvement with PPi. This book sums up available knowledge in one place and will help scientists cross disciplinary boundaries.

The purpose of this volume in the Progress in Inflammation Research series is to provide the biomedical and clinical researcher with a state-of-the-art insight in the role of cytokines in joint inflammation and joint destruction. This is of relevance for better understanding of key processes in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Apart from the impact of old and novel cytokines on joint tissues, the various chapters address the issue of targeted therapy with biological response modifiers and future interventions with carefully designed inhibitors. Spe cial attention is given to elements of synovial cell activation, cell-cell interaction, cytokine interplay as well as mechanisms of cartilage destruction and bone erosion. In addition to an outline of the role of established cytokines, such as TNF, IL-l and IL-6, new information is given on the novel cytokines IL-15, IL-17 and IL-18 and their positioning in the complex cytokine interplay. Cytokine regulation of destructive enzymes, RANKL, the endogenous inhibitor OPG and their crucial roles as central players in joint erosion are highlighted. Together, the chapters provide a complete and balanced view on pivotal cytokines and joint pathology.

This book provides a complete overview of all modalities used for hand and wrist imaging, along with a complete over- view of the various disease entities that can be diagnosed. As a state-of-the-art overview of hand and wrist imaging it is a reference work for radiologists, hand surgeons, ortho- pedists, traumatologists, rheumatologists and internists and their residents in training. The chapters are written by ex- perts in musculoskeletal radiology from various European countries and the USA.

Severe spondylolisthesis/spondyloptosis is still a controversial issue in spine surgery. This book takes an interdisciplinary approach and discusses the state of the art and defines therapeutic strategies. The contributing authors are well-known specialists in the field.

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint pathology which primarily affects the older population. The disease is characterized by unique pathological changes in some synovial joints, predominantly affecting the articular cartilage, but also entire joints, including the synovial tissue and subchondral bone. The remarkable growth of research on normal and abnormal biology of tissues in the articulating joint, including the application of novel molecular biological approaches and new imaging techniques, is reflected in this volume. It describes the current state of knowledge and helps to further understand the etiopathology of osteoarthritis, hopefully leading to early detection of the disease and novel treatment modalities. The volume contains contributions and discussions from a select group of investigators, all experts in this field, who met at the conference "The Many Faces of Osteoarthritis", held in June 2001 at Lake Tahoe, to acknowledge Klaus E. Kuettner and his contributions to osteoarthritis...

Advances in Materials Science and Implant Orthopedic Surgery brings together experts from major university hospitals, materials scientists specializing in bio-materials, and development engineers working for implant manufacturers to address such issues as: mechanisms of fixation; foreign-body immune response; generation and consequences of ionic and wear debris; materials selection, design and manufacturing schemes; and surgical techniques to maximize the safety and efficacy of the devices.

Growth Hormone is a fitting addition to the Endocrine Updates Series. The aim of these publications is to provide the clinician with cutting-edge, yet succinct, access to the latest advances in endocrinology. Current interest in this rapidly evolving area of endocrinology makes this a timely and important update. Growth Hormone joins Dr. Fagin's Thyroid Cancer in continuing the standard of excellence as the fourth volume in this series of topical updates. Shlomo Melmed, MD, Series Editor, Endocrine Updates Ten years ago, many endocrinologists were still skeptical that growth hormone (GH) played an active role in adult metabolism. This is, perhaps, surprising given that GH deficiency (GHD) in adulthood had been `recognized' as long ago as the 1960s. During the last ten years studies have shown that GHD in adulthood is a far-reaching syndrome associated with abnormal body composition, reduced bone mineral density with an increased fracture rate, increased cardiovascular morbidity and impaired cardiac function, as well as reduced exercise performance and decreased psychological well-being. Importantly, it is also clear, from placebo-controlled trials, that GH replacement therapy can normalize body composition, increase bone mineral content and improve the cardiovascular risk factor profile. GH replacement therapy also improves cardiac performance and exercise capacity, increases muscle strength and improves well-being and quality of life. The aim of Growth Hormone is to provide a critical update of current knowledge about adult GHD and the future role of GH/IGF-1 in adult medicine. For this purpose, contributions from a number of research groups have been invited. It is my hope that the book may not only serve as an introduction to the field, but also stimulate further research within this exciting area.

..". I would recommend this book for an in-depth analysis of the lumbar spine and its degenerative states ... extremely beneficial for the resident early in trainings as he or she attempts to correlate the complex anatomy of the lumbosacral region with associated pathological states ... Journal of Neurosurgery"

1 Indikationsstellung fur gelenkerhaltende und gelenkersetzende Behandlungsverfahren.- Gelenkerhaltende Eingriffe.- Gelenkersetzende Eingriffe.- 2 Technische Besonderheiten fur die Implantation bikondylarer Prothesen.- 3 Management der Fehlstellung totalkondylarer Prothesen.- Allgemeine Bemerkungen.- Praoperative Planung.- Anatomische und klassische Resektion.- 4 Behandlung der Beugekontraktur.- Behandlung der milden Form der Beugekontraktur (Grad I bis 10 Grad Flexion).- Behandlung der mittelschweren Form der Beugekontraktur (Grad II zwischen 10 und 30 Grad).- Behandlung der schweren Form der Beugekontraktur (Grad III mehr als 30 Grad).- 5 Behandlung der Extensionskontrakturen.- Chirurgisches Vorgehen.- 6 Management der Varusfehlstellung.- Management der leichten Varusgonarthrose.- Management der massigen Varusgonarthrose.- Management der schweren Varusfehlstellung.- 7 Management der Valgusfehlstellung.- Behandlung der extremen Valgusfehlstellung mittels Korrekturosteotomie.- 8 Management der aseptischen Prothesenrevision.- Praoperative Planung.- Zugangswege bei Revision.- Entfernung der alten Implantate.- Technik der aseptischen Kniegelenksrevision.- Anhand des Kniesystems Wallaby III soil die Technik der Revisionsoperation erklart werden.- 1. Standardisierte Operationstechnik unabhangig vom Knochendefekt.- 2. Die Wiederherstellung der ligamentaren Stabilitat.- 3. Wiederherstellung der knoechernen Integritat.- 4. Sichere Fixation der femoralen und tibialen Komponente.- Klinisches Beispiel.- 9 Management der septischen Prothesenrevision.- Klassifikation und Ursachen.- Wundheilungsstoerung/oberflachlicher Infekt.- Der Fruhinfekt.- Der Spatinfekt.- Der zweizeitige Wechsel.- Der einzeitige Wechsel.- Wahl des Implantates.

Sharmila Majumdar In the area of osteoporosis and skeletal changes, it is currently accepted that bone mineral density (BMD), widely used for screening, monitoring and assessing therapeutic efficacy, does not adequately explain the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, the process of aging, or the therapeutic efficacy of various treatments. In this context, trabecular micro- architecture has enormous potential to contribute to understanding the pathophysiology of osteopor.osis and therapy assessment. The use and value of noninvasive imaging and quantitative image analysis and processing of trabecular bone micro-architecture have increased dramatically due to recent advances in instrumentation and software. This emerging field is diverse, interdisciplinary, and encompasses many different imaging modalities. Interested researchers include those involved in technique development, basic science and animal studies, as well as clinical researchers and practicing physicians. With the growth of this area of research, a group of investigators at the 11th Interna- tional Workshop of Bone Densitometry, 1 concluded that a forum dedicated to this matter was urgently needed. With this agenda, Dr. Peter Ruegsegger organized the first sympo- 2 sium on conjunction with the 10th Conference of the European Society of Biomechanics. The symposium on Bone Architecture and Competence was a two-hourlong event which resulted in five chapters in Bone Research and Biomechanics, edited by G. Lowet, P. Ruegsegger, H. Weinans, and A. Meunier, published by lOS Press, 1997. The second symposium was held as a pre-symposium to the 12th Workshop on Bone Denistometry,3 and flourished as a daylong event.

Paris October 10th, 1929 - Kyoto October 15th - 20th, 1978

Cervical laminoplasty for the treatment of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament was developed and refined in Japan during the 1970s. Since that time, various cervical laminoplasty techniques have been further analyzed and modified, and have proven to be clinically successful. Until now cervical laminoplasty has been practiced primarily in Japan, and surgeons outside Japan had only limited access to the detailed English literature needed to make full use of the procedures. This book fills that gap in English information and provides a detailed, up-to-date guide to performing safe and effective cervical laminoplasty. Drawing on the latest knowledge from Japan, the book covers the history of cervical laminoplasty, surgical anatomy, basic procedures, modified procedures, possible complications, and perspectives on the future of expansive laminoplasty. This volume by leaders in the field is an excellent guide for all surgeons interested in laminoplasty.

In this updated edition of the German-language title "Neue Techniken - Kniechirugie", Professor Paessler, an experienced knee surgeon, provides a state-of-the-art survey of the field. In doing so he describes, among other techniques, how to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), perform ACL revision surgery, manage a recent posterior cruciate ligament tear, treat cartilage lesions with microfracturing, reattach/replace detached cartilage fragment, perform a dome high tibial osteotomy. Professor Paessler is author of more than 150 publications (books and journals) and editor-in-chief of the "European Journal of Sports Traumatology and Related Research". An important resource for all trauma and orthopaedic surgeons and trainees.

Many residency programs in primary care specialties do not provide the education in pediatric orthopedics necessary to effectively deal with the field's challenges. Here, the authors present a framework for the effective evaluation of childhood musculoskeletal problems in a practical and problem-based manner. The volume contains case studies and over 200 illustrations.

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) is a disease resulting from temporary or permanent loss of blood supply. It frequently affects the femoral head and in this area, if left untreated, routinely causes premature joint destruction.

In the USA, 5 to 10% of cases of hip osteoarthritis requiring total hip replacement are primarily caused by AVN. In 33 to 72% of patients, the disease is bilateral. The peak incidence is between 30 and 60 years of age, and the social costs of this pathology are remarkable. There is therefore increasing interest in hip joint preserving techniques such as conservative treatment through electromagnetic fields and shockwaves as well as joint preserving surgical techniques. This volume aims to present a complete overview of the current knowledge on AVN including therapeutic options.

Meniscal transplantation has become an attractive option in selected patients with incapacitating knee pain. This book discusses all aspects of meniscal transplantation, covering the use of both allografts and meniscal substitutes, including collagen and polyurethane implants. Acknowledged experts in the field review the basic science, explain indications, and describe surgical techniques and the results achieved to date. All the material is up to date, with information on new implants, new techniques, and new surgical approaches. Future trends in the treatment of meniscal lesions are also discussed as we move towards the application of regenerative strategies to restore meniscus function. "