Topics
Orthoses
Purpose: Support function, control deformity, reduce pain Types: Static: Stabilize joint Dynamic: Facilitate movement Design principles: Simplicity, lightness, durability, aesthetics; consider rigidity/flexibility and tissue tolerance
Biomaterials
Biomaterials are synthetic substances, derived from organic or inorganic components, designed to interact with biological systems. Their properties are determined by their structure (elemental composition, atomic bonding, crystalline configuration) and their processing methods (casting, forging, extrusion, sintering, etc.).
Bone Grafts, BMP, and Bone Substitutes
Clinical Research, Statistical Concepts, and Tests
Anticoagulants
Musculoskeletal Infections and Microbiology
Cellular and Molecular Biology, Immunology and Genetics Terminology
Biomechanics
Articular Cartilage: Structure, Components, and Clinical Relevance
Spot Knowledge – Articular Cartilage Composition: 95% ECM (water, collagen, proteoglycans), 5% chondrocytes Water: 65–80%, enables load-bearing, nutrient transport Collagen: >50% dry weight, mainly type II (90–95%); tensile strength Proteoglycans: 10–15% dry weight; aggrecan + GAGs provide compressive resilience Zones: Superficial (parallel collagen, friction reduction) Transitional (irregular, load distribution) Deep (vertical, compressive strength) Calcified (anchors to bone) Functions: Low-friction motion, load distribution, joint stability, resistance to forces Clinical relevance: Limited healing (avascular) Water/collagen/PG imbalance → osteoarthritis Collagen II & X defects → chondrodysplasias PG loss → elasticity ↓, cartilage breakdown