Summary

The objective of the Collaborative AO Research Center Berlin is to gain a further understanding of the influence of musculo-skeletal loading on the clinical course of healing and bone adaptation.

Based on the knowledge generated, conclusions will be drawn for an optimised design of fixation system and treatment method. Guidelines will be formulated on the optimal conditions of fixation devices, surgical techniques and postoperative treatment protocols for healthy and osteoporotic patients. This knowledge should reduce the healing time as well as the risk of a second intervention.

The founding of a Collaborative AO Research Centre (RCB) strengthens the interdisciplinary and international work in basic science in the fields of orthopaedic and trauma surgery. By the installation of the RCB, the AO Foundation gains a specialized partner in the field of fracture and soft tissue healing as well as in clinical practice. The partnership allows a division of labour between the AO Research Institute in Davos and the RCB. Both groups have a long-lasting and close co-operation in a number of research activities and share common interests. The foundation of the RCB will further strengthen this co-operation and extend the exchange of ideas and technical knowledge within the defined field of research activities.