There is some exciting clinical research underway at Copley Hospital. The following are research projects that Bryan Huber, MD of Mansfield Orthopaedics is involved in. The research involves sports medicine, joint replacement and osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis – Improving Bone Strength
In late 2008 Dr. Huber, working in collaboration with Jim Howe, MD of Fletcher Allen Health Care, began a research study on improving bone strength in women to reduce hip fractures due to osteoporosis. The project focused on women over the age of 55 with low bone mass. Participants were injected with a bone graft substitute that would hopefully spur new bone growth.
The initial pilot study has been completed and promising bone growth was seen in participants. Patients did well with the osteosupplementation injections and bone density scores improved significantly. Dr. Huber reports plans are currently underway for a larger, multi-center study that will lead the way to new treatment options for severe osteoporosis in the hip.
Partial Knee Replacement Study
Total knee replacement has proven to be an effective surgical treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. However, for certain patients, partial knee replacement has emerged as an option. Partial knee replacements require shorter recovery time, avoids the bone and tissue removal associated with standard joint replacement surgery and leaves existing ligaments and cartilage that support the knee. Dr. Huber is currently involved in a research project tracking outcomes following partial knee replacement.
Total Joint Replacement
Copley Hospital regularly performs total joint replacement surgery, including, knee, hip and shoulder. Dr. Huber and a team of scientists are in the design and development stage of a new approach to hemostatis (stoppage of bleeding) and drug delivery using “hydrogels” in joint replacement surgeries.
Meniscal “All-Suture” Repair Research –
a less invasive procedure
Meniscal repairs are a common procedure at Copley. Dr. Huber is in the final stages of design and evaluation of all-suture meniscal repair. He performs meniscal surgeries with an “all inside” technique using sutures. Dr. Huber anticipates the technique to be a more reproducible, efficient method of treating meniscal tears. Outcomes include efficiency of repair [reduced surgical time], reduced risk of neurovascular structures, and increased comfort and use for the patient following surgery.
Mansfield Orthopaedics is the leading orthopedic practice in the area, with orthopaedic surgeons Bryan Huber, MD; Eric Mullins, MD and Brian Aros, MD along with sports medicine specialist Richard James, MD. Our patient-centered care, highly experienced professionals, and leading-edge technologies ensure you receive the very best orthopedic care and treatment. www.copleyvt.org/orthopedics.
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