Clinical Studies in Orthopedics Copyright 2010. PEER.tamu.edu

Why Is Orthopedic Research Important? Develop methods to prevent bone deterioration or fractures. Develop new drugs to promote bone health. Develop new surgical techniques. Usually, the initial research is done in animals. They have orthopedic disorders very similar to human disorders.

Using the Scientific Method Ask a question. Find out what is already known. Construct a testable hypothesis. Design an experiment to test hypothesis. Many times animals are used in orthopedic studies. Analyze data. Draw a conclusion. Communicate your results. If you haven’t seen the “Scientific Investigations” slide show or had a lesson on Scientific Method, you need to do so before proceeding with the assignment.

Then APPLY your results. Examples: Create and test prevention methods. Design, formulate, create and test drugs. Create and test surgical or rehabilitation procedures.

Clinical Studies Study design should determine whether a treatment or prevention works and is safe. Must have: Controls. Careful selection of subjects. Blind/double-blind designs. Adequate sample size.

Assignment Design a simple experiment regarding any of the topics discussed in orthopedics. Research plan should state: The hypothesis. The rationale (reason for the study) and background information. How the hypothesis can be tested, including methods, instruments, selection of subjects, and control group.