133782Corthotec: Feasibility StudyClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKA UK-based project to develop novel technology to improve the healing of broken bones. Although not well publicised, in the UK as many as 85,000 people a year have problems with broken (fractured) bones healing and instead of healing in the normal six weeks, do not heal for months or years. The pain and disability associated with the fractured bone persists much longer than normal, which impacts not only on the patient, but their dependents and society as a whole. Traditionally these persistent fractures have required complex, expensive surgery, however even this can fail. This is where certain classes of treatment termed 'orthobiologics' come in. Orthobiologics encourage bone healing and when used in conjunction with surgery can increase the chances of a positive outcome for the patient. Currently there are limited options for patients and surgeons. By focusing on preventing the failure of healing in at risk groups such as the elderly, or patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes, the proposed approach has the potential to significantly reduce the current need for costly and complicated surgery alleviating the resulting disability and poor quality of life in those affected.