Effect Zoledronic Acid And Risedronate On The Preservation Of The Femoral Head In A Rat Model Of Perthes Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$199,750.00
Summary
Perthes Disease (Legg-Perthes Disease) is a common childhood disorder, which leads to collapse and deformity of the growing hip joint. This can lead to arthritis in adult life, as well as a short leg on the affected side. The cause is as yet unknown. A class of drugs called bisphosphonates has been shown to help children with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). We believe, based on our extensive studies of the effect of these drugs on bone healing, that they could also help children ....Perthes Disease (Legg-Perthes Disease) is a common childhood disorder, which leads to collapse and deformity of the growing hip joint. This can lead to arthritis in adult life, as well as a short leg on the affected side. The cause is as yet unknown. A class of drugs called bisphosphonates has been shown to help children with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease). We believe, based on our extensive studies of the effect of these drugs on bone healing, that they could also help children with Perthes disease. Although proving to be safe and effective in children with osteogenesis imperfecta, before exposing children with Perthes disease to the risk of any side effects, animal studies are needed. A certain type of rat called the spontaneously hypertensive rat gets a condition almost exactly the same as Perthes disease. This study will treat a large number of these rats and perform detailed study into whether it has a positive effect on preserving the shape of the hip joint, as well as looking into how this actually occurs. A successful outcome would pave the way for trials in children with Perthes disease, and could result in the avoidance of surgery and improved health outcomes for the children.Read moreRead less
Antibiotic Loading Of Bone Allografts For The Prevention Of Peri-operative Infection
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$300,847.00
Summary
Bone is the second most often transplanted tissue after blood, with thousands of grafts done every year in Australia. Allograft bone (taken from another person) is used to replace bone removed due to cancer, but is prone to infection. Infected grafts must be removed, and can lead to amputation. We are developing a process to put antibiotics into allograft bone, to prevent infections from taking hold. Reducing infections can increase the success of limb salvage surgery for cancer patients.