ReMED-Orthowatch

Laboratory for Retrieval Research and Reprocessing of Medical Devices

What is OrthoWatch? A post-marketing surveillance program integrating performance evaluations of joint prostheses with clinical outcomes and implant retrieval analysis
What is Implant Retrieval Analysis? The use of systematic assessment protocols to objectively and quantitatively characterize: 1) the human biological response to biomaterials; and 2) the performance of prosthesis designs after they have functioned in patients
Key Research and Innovations Platforms Analysis of retrieved orthopaedic implants and other medical devices Joint replacements: pre-clinical testing and simulations Implant registries and post-marketing surveillance Musculoskeletal biomechanics and functional assessments Novel surgical instruments and operative techniques Bearing surfaces and the bone-biomaterial interface

History

Dr. Melinda Harman began her involvement with implant retrieval analysis in 1989. Her work has involved orthopaedic surgeons at major medical centers around the world. Her collection contains over 4500 implants primarily used for total joint replacement.

Upon becoming a faculty member at Clemson University, Dr. Harman brought her expertise in implant analysis and teamed up with Dr. John DesJardins to manage Clemson’s own retrieval program. The Clemson University Implant Retrieval Program (CU-REPRO) was created in 2008 with a mission to incorporate undergraduate education, biomaterials research and community outreach. CU-REPRO has cooperative partnerships with 11 hospitals in South Carolina and is one of only a few retrieval programs in the country.

We are always looking for new collaborators. If you would be interested in becoming a part of the REPRO, please contact Melinda Harman.

OrthoWatch Highlights & Accomplishments

ReMED researchers gain international recognition by presenting their work at the annual meeting of the Orthopaedic Research Society, the Society for Biomaterials, and other scientific meetings.

2016-17: CU-REPRO celebrates its 8th year of student involvement in Implant Retrieval Analysis. Students participate annually in research conferences. Also in 2016, in a Clemson TV broadcast, Melinda Harman and two Bioengineering undergraduate students explained implant retrieval analysis and how their Creative Inquiry class (CU-REPRO) investigates contemporary issues related to joint replacement performance in patients. To view the video, please click HERE.

CU-REPRO 2016-2017 Undergraduate Students

CU-REPRO 2011-2013 Undergraduate Students