Research project will explore potential role of statins in extending the longevity of joint replacements

The recipient of an early-careers research fellowship grant, co-funded by Orthopaedic Research UK (ORUK) and the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCSEng), has been unveiled. Sami Anjum, a clinical research fellow and orthopaedic ST2 trainee at Newcastle University, will be undertaking a year-long study into the role that statins might play in extending the longevity of joint replacements. One of the causes of the failure of artificial joint replacements is inflammation which leads to bone degradation and aseptic loosening of the implant. Sami’s research fellowship will explore the role of the immune system in causing this inflammation response and specifically whether the use of statins can provide a solution.

Statins are prescribed to lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. They are cheap, widely available and safe. Data indicates that patients already taking statins who have undergone a hip replacement surgery are less likely to require revision surgery. This phenomenon has been explained by several clinical studies indicating that statins can promote bone growth and in cardiology there is evidence that statins can also positively affect the immune response.

Sami said, ‘I am very grateful to have received the ORUK/RCSEng joint Fellowship and hope I can return the confidence in me by ORUK and the college with productive research results that have the potential to benefit thousands of patients.’

He hopes that his fellowship will allow him to demonstrate (through data analysis and lab work) how statins have the potential to reduce inflammation within the bone and joint interface . If this proves successful, the next stage will be clinical trials.

Dr Arash Angadji, CEO of Orthopaedic Research UK, added:

“Revision surgery is a complex and expensive procedure and poses greater risks to patients who will inevitably be older. This is why we are so excited by this research project. By investing in this research fellowship, alongside our partner the RCSEng, we are able to support a talented clinician who is determined to advance musculoskeletal research in the UK.”

Ralph Tomlinson, Director of Research & Quality Improvement at the Royal College of Surgeons of England said:

“We are delighted that Sami will benefit from this surgical research fellowship, and to have been able to partner with Orthopaedic Research UK to make it happen.  The important research he will be carrying out will help further our understanding of how statins can be used in musculoskeletal research, extending the frontiers of surgery through clinical research.  Our research fellowships support trainee surgeons to improve patient care by increasing surgical knowledge and improving surgical practice.  We look forward to hearing about Sami’s progress towards achieving his ambitious and exciting aims.”

ORUK’s Early-Career Research Fellowships, co-funded by leading academic institutions such as RCSEng, are designed to support the brightest and best academic talents interested in advancing MSK research in the UK. They are open to early-career clinical and scientific academics who have successfully completed their PhD or MD.

NOTES TO EDITORS

About Orthopaedic Research UK (ORUK):

• Established in 1989 by the orthopaedic surgeon Mr Ronald Furlong FRCS, Orthopaedic Research UK is a medical research charity dedicated to advancing musculoskeletal (MSK) health by funding and publicising research and organising training and education which promote collaboration between healthcare professionals within the MSK community.
• Today we are one of the very few significant funders of MSK research in the UK, working alongside our partners to encourage breakthrough research and education programmes in bone, joint and muscle wellbeing. Our common goal is to reduce the burden of poor musculoskeletal health on individuals, workplaces and our health system.
• Find ORUK at oruk.org, on Twitter, on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About The Royal College of Surgeons of England:

The Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) is a professional membership organisation and registered charity. The College provides world-class education, assessment and development to more than 28,000 surgeons, dental professionals and members of the wider surgical and dental care teams, at all stages of their career. The College sets professional standards, facilitates research and champions the best outcomes for patients – with a vision to see excellent surgical care for everyone.