Biocompatibility is one of the mandatory requirements for the clinical use of biomaterials in orthopedics. It refers to the ability of a biomaterial to perform its function without eliciting toxic or injurious effects on biological systems but producing an appropriate host response in a specific case. Today, the biocompatibility concept includes not only bio‑inertia, but also biofunctionality and biostability. High biocompatibility and functional properties are highly desirable for new biomaterials. The chemical, mechanical, structural properties of biomaterials, their interaction with biological environment or even the methodology of assessment can influence the biocompatibility. The biological evaluation of biomaterials includes a broad spectrum of in vitro and in vivo tests related to the cytocompatibility, genotoxicity, sensitization, irritation, acute and chronic toxicity, hemocompatibility, reproductive and developmental toxicitity, carcinogenicity, implantation and degradation as specified in different international standards. A brief review of the main assays used in the biocompatibility testing of orthopedic biomaterials is presented. In addition, their main biocompatibility issues are overviewed.

Teledentistry enhances access to oral healthcare by enabling remote consultations, diagnosis, and patient management. This paper explores its applications, benefits, challenges, and impact on modern dentistry. A comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies was conducted to examine the effectiveness of teledentistry. Key aspects analyzed include digital imaging, AI (artificial intelligence)-assisted diagnostics, and cloud-based patient records, which facilitate early disease detection, reduce wait times, and minimize unnecessary visits. The review also highlights how teledentistry improves collaboration among dental professionals for better treatment planning. Challenges include legal barriers, data security concerns, and limited digital infrastructure. Standardized protocols and professional training are essential for effective implementation. Future advancements in AI and telecommunication technologies will further integrate teledentistry into standard practice, improving accessibility and efficiency in oral healthcare.

The gut microbiota is emerging as an important contributor to the homeostasis of the human body through its involvement in nutrition and metabolism, protection against pathogens, and the development and modulation of the immune system. It has therefore become an important research topic in recent decades. Although the association between intestinal dysbiosis and numerous digestive pathologies has been thoroughly researched, its involvement in pancreatic diseases constitutes a novelty in the specialized literature. In recent years, growing evidence has pointed to the critical involvement of the pancreas in regulating the intestinal microbiota, as well as the impact of the intestinal microbiota on pancreatic physiology, which implies the existence of a bidirectional connection known as the “gut–pancreas axis”. It is theorized that any change at either of these levels triggers a response in the other component, hence leading to the evolution of pancreatitis. However, there are not enough data to determine whether gut dysbiosis is an underlying cause or a result of pancreatitis; therefore, more research is needed in this area. The purpose of this narrative review is to highlight the role of gut dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic pancreatitis, its evolution, and the prospect of employing the microbiota as a therapeutic intervention for pancreatitis.

Background: Enchondroma is the most common benign bone tumor of the hand. Surgical excision of the tumor using curettage is the treatment of choice. The management of the resulting defects is still a controversial topic in the literature. Methods: This retrospective study includes 15 patients diagnosed with solitary enchondroma in the hand bones: eight cases with type A, three cases with type B and four cases with type D according to Takigawa classification. The aim of this study was to compare the course and outcome in the three patient groups treated by curettage associated with natural consolidation of the bone defect, autologous bone graft or injectable synthetic bone substitute in association with plate and screw osteosynthesis. Results: Outcomes were assessed using the DASH score (mean score 2.5) and TAM score (excellent in all patients) with no significant functional differences between the three groups. Defects managed with k-IBS^® injectable bone substitute were associated with shorter operating time, simpler surgical technique and less postoperative pain assessed by VAS score. Conclusion: The use of k-IBS^® bone substitute is efficient and less technically demanding than autologous bone grafting. The Takigawa classification could be a good indicator for treatment choice.

Background: A critical-sized bone defect (CsBD) is considered one that will not heal spontaneously and requires reconstruction. This study aims to compare the results of using different bone reconstructive techniques and to study the potential of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to enhance the healing properties of a bone substitute (BS). Methods: In this experimental study on rats, the treatment of critical-sized bone defects was carried out by analysing four groups: a control group in which the bone defect was left empty; a group treated with Bio-Gen^®; another group in which the defect was treated with PRF in combination with Bio-Gen^®; and the last that was treated with autologous bone graft (ABG). The defects were evaluated by microcomputed tomography (µCT) and then histomorphometrically. Results: From both the histological and imagistic point of view, the best results were registered in the ABG group, followed by the group treated with Bio-Gen^® with PRF, Bio-Gen^® group, and control group, with statistically significant differences. Conclusions: A 5 mm defect in the rat radius can be considered critical. ABG showed the best results in treating the bone defect. PRF significantly enhanced the efficacy of Bio-Gen^®.

The general opinion in the literature is that these topics remain clearly understudied and underrated, with many unknown aspects and with controversial results in the respective areas of research. Based on the previous experience of our groups regarding such matters investigated separately, here we attempt a short overview upon their links. Thus, we summarize here the current state of knowledge regarding the connections between oxidative stress and: (a) orthopedic conditions; (b) COVID-19. We also present the reciprocal interferences among them. Oxidative stress is, of course, an interesting and continuously growing area, but what exactly is the impact of COVID-19 in orthopedic patients? In the current paper we also approached some theories on how oxidative stress, metabolism involvement, and even antibiotic resistance might be influenced by either orthopedic conditions or COVID-19. These manifestations could be relevant and of great interest in the context of this current global health threat; therefore, we summarize the current knowledge and/or the lack of sufficient evidence to support the interactions between these conditions.