During the last few months, Humanitas has launched the new Center for the Functional and Biological Reconstruction of Knees, guided by Professor Maurilio Marcacci. In a recent interview with the newspaper “Il Giorno”, he talked about many aspects of his work.
The aim of the new Center for the Functional and Biological Reconstruction of Knees is rebuilding knees after traumas or accidents.
We have a comprehensive view of surgery. In fact, we implant mechanical prostheses, we reconstruct articulations in knees, and we also use biological treatments when the need arises.
Research also plays an important role. In fact, the team is at the forefront of the efforts to develop innovative solutions in the orthopaedic field. “For instance, we lead translational research projects for the development and validation of new prosthetic implants”, the professor explains.
In addition to clinical activities and research, Professor Marcacci also performs teaching duties as a teacher of Humanitas University: “The education of young doctors is one of my main concerns”, he declared.
Damage to the Joints
Our joints may be damaged by wear (due to the simple passage of time), or by traumas and inflammatory diseases. These factors may hinder the contact between the articulations of the knee, thus reducing their fluidity. The damage may even limit the functionality of the articulation.
Anyone can suffer from these problems, so it’s important to pay attention to some signals. Pain or difficulties in maintaining stability are wake-up calls that a doctor has to investigate.
Regenerative Medicine and Surgery
Clinical tests may reveal degenerative alterations, joint lesions or defects in the cartilage. According to the specific case, we may treat these ailments one at a time or all together.
“In order to avoid or delay the use of prostheses, regenerative medicine is a good starting point. It uses infiltrations with plasmatic growth factors and stem cells”, Prof. Marcacci points out.
In some cases, surgery is required. New techniques allow the reconstruction of the knee with mechanical prostheses, that are particularly effective in elderly patients. Younger, more active patients may instead benefit from innovative techniques that allow the reconstruction of the articulation, also thanks to “biological treatments that favour the regeneration”.
A Dream for the Future
We strive to offer patients the best therapeutic alternatives.
“I dream of a complete biological prosthesis. To achieve this result, we are working on regenerative bone and cartilage medicine and on articular reconstruction. We have been working on this for many years. However, we have yet much to do, but I am positive we will succeed”, Professor Marcacci says.
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