This research will follow 500 people with osteoarthritis over the next five years and comprehensively map their characteristics. The aim is to gain insight into who qualifies for which treatment. Because the diversity among people with osteoarthritis is so great, a universal treatment is not effective for everyone.
Measurement and Precision with new Measurement Platform
This marks the inaugural use of advanced technology to quantify various facets of osteoarthritis, consolidating the data on a unified platform. With the goal of comprehensively understanding the experiences, movements, and progression of osteoarthritis in individuals, and to determine the most effective medication for each person. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of health, encompassing physical, psychological, and social aspects, the researchers collaborate with patients. The study's findings enable personalised treatment strategies for individuals with osteoarthritis.
Promise of improvement
The research includes existing technologies such as 'joint-on-a-chip', accurate measurements of substances in the body that are an indicator of the disease (biomarkers), analysis of movement with sensors, and making computer models of joint movement and load on cartilage. In doing so, the researchers aim to understand and capture specific characteristics of people with osteoarthritis. Based on these parameters, practitioners can determine the most promising treatment for their patients.
Moving forward together
Besides people with advanced osteoarthritis, two groups at increased risk of osteoarthritis formation will also participate in the study. These are those with a broken or removed meniscus or leg amputation.
TopTreat is of great importance for progress in the care of people with osteoarthritis. Moreover, the project is expected to develop a patentable technology platform that can be quickly translated into more applications in healthcare. With this ambitious project, ICMS aims to maximise clinical and societal progress.
About ICMS
The Interdisciplinary Consortium for Clinical Movement Sciences & Technology (ICMS) is a unique partnership between RadboudUMC, Sint Maartenskliniek, Roessingh Research and Development and the TechMed Centre at the University of Twente. In TopTreat, these partners work together with ReumaNederland, the companies ATRO Medical and Moveshelf, the Sint Maartenskliniek Rheumatism Foundation, the Twente Graduate School and the Dutch Ministry of Defence. Together with funding from the Top Consortium for Knowledge and Innovation High-tech Systems & Materials, the project involves about EUR 4.8 million.
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