Purpose "Biologic therapies" in the field of orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, so called orthobiologics, have been gaining significant interest from physicians and patients, with increasing... Show morePurpose "Biologic therapies" in the field of orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, so called orthobiologics, have been gaining significant interest from physicians and patients, with increasing usage over the recent years. The aim of this study is to (1) evaluate the usage of orthobiologics in the Netherlands, (2) to clarify the reasons for the use or non-use of orthobiologics, and (3) the most addressed disease for use of orthobiologics. Methods The authors created a 19-quenstion online survey comprised of both closed-ended and open-ended response questions in order to examine the use of and the indication for orthobiologics. The survey was sent to all the members of the Dutch Orthopaedic Association and Netherlands Association of Sports Medicine of which 15% responded. Results The majority of the 265 respondents (65%) did not treat patients with or refer patients for treatment with orthobiologics. The most important reasons for not using orthobiologics were the lack of scientific evidence, the lack of good experience, and the lack of insurance coverage. Of the physicians that used orthobiologics, the most used hyaluronic acid (76%) and platelet-rich plasma (27%). Orthobiologics were most used for knee osteoarthritis and medial or lateral epicondylitis. Conclusion Although some orthobiologic treatments might be effective and the research interest is growing, our study shows that the majority of orthopaedic and sport physician clinicians in the Netherlands still does not make use of orthobiologics as a treatment option, but almost a third of them is contemplating to start using orthobiologics. Show less
Dissolving microneedles are a subgroup of microneedle types that completely dissolve within the skin. During this dissolving process the vaccine, stored in the needle matrix, is released into the... Show moreDissolving microneedles are a subgroup of microneedle types that completely dissolve within the skin. During this dissolving process the vaccine, stored in the needle matrix, is released into the skin. Dissolving microneedles are made of a water-soluble, inert and safe material, such as hyaluronic acid. The microneedles have been used to vaccinate via the skin, which is a very immune competent organ that holds great potential for vaccine delivery. The minimally invasive and easy nature of the injections can reduce the risk of infections and alleviate the need for trained personnel. Furthermore, they eliminate all sharp waste as the needles dissolve during drug delivery.The goals of this project has been to improve the immunogenicity of vaccines through skin delivery, allowing for increased understanding of skin immunology and the development of pain free and safe vaccine delivery systems. Show less
