Is blockchain ready for orthopaedics? A systematic review

Adoption of blockchain as a step forward in orthopedic practice

Blockchain technology has gained popularity since the invention of Bitcoin in 2008. It offers a decentralized and secure system for managing and protecting data. In the healthcare sector, where data protection and patient privacy are crucial, blockchain has the potential to revolutionize various aspects, including patient data management, orthopedic registries, medical imaging, research data, and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This manuscript explores the applications of blockchain in orthopedics and highlights its benefits. Furthermore, the combination of blockchain with artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and deep learning can enable more accurate diagnoses and treatment recommendations. AI algorithms can learn from large datasets stored on the blockchain, leading to advancements in automated clinical decision-making. Overall, blockchain technology has the potential to enhance data security, interoperability, and collaboration in orthopedics. While there are challenges to overcome, such as adoption barriers and data sharing willingness, the benefits offered by blockchain make it a promising innovation for the field.

Blockchain Revolutionizing in Emergency Medicine: A Scoping Review of Patient Journey through the ED

BACKGROUND

Blockchain technology has revolutionized the healthcare sector, including emergency medicine, by integrating AI, machine learning, and big data, thereby transforming traditional healthcare practices. The increasing utilization and accumulation of personal health data also raises concerns about security and privacy, particularly within emergency medical settings.

METHOD

Our review focused on articles published in databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, and Medline, discussing the revolutionary impact of blockchain technology within the context of the patient journey through the ED.

RESULTS

A total of 33 publications met our inclusion criteria. The findings emphasize that blockchain technology primarily finds its applications in data sharing and documentation. The pre-hospital and post-discharge applications stand out as distinctive features compared to other disciplines. Among various platforms, Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric emerge as the most frequently utilized options, while Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Authority (PoA) stand out as the most commonly employed consensus algorithms in this emergency care domain. The ED journey map and two scenarios are presented, exemplifying the most distinctive applications of emergency medicine, and illustrating the potential of blockchain. Challenges such as interoperability, scalability, security, access control, and cost could potentially arise in emergency medical contexts, depending on the specific scenarios.

CONCLUSION

Our study examines the ongoing research on blockchain technology, highlighting its current influence and potential future advancements in optimizing emergency medical services. This approach empowers frontline medical professionals to validate their practices and recognize the transformative potential of blockchain in emergency medical care, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.

Industry 5.0 in Orthopaedics

Background

Industrial revolutions play a major role in the development of technologies in various fields. Currently, the world is marching towards softwarization and digitalization. There is an emerging need for conversion of Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 for technological development and implementation of the same in the digital era. In health care, digitalization emerged in Industry 4.0 revolution. To enhance patient care and quality of life, Industry 5.0 plays a major role in providing patient-centric care and customization and personalization of products. The integration of human intelligence with artificial intelligence provides a precise diagnosis and enhances the recovery and functional outcome of the patients.

Materials and methods

In this manuscript, the domains and limitations of Industry 5.0 and further research on Industry 6.0 were elaborated on to bring out technologies in better health care.

Results

Industry 5.0 lessens the work of medical professionals and integrates software-based diagnosis and management. It provides cost-effective manufacturing solutions with limited resources compared to Industry 4.0. Industry 5.0 focuses on SMART and additive manufacturing of implants, and the development of bio-scaffolds, prosthetics, and instruments. In this manuscript, the domains and limitations of Industry 5.0 and further research on Industry 6.0 were elaborated on to bring out technologies in better health care.

Conclusion

'The personalization and customization of products' are the hallmarks of this evolving Industry 5.0 revolution. The major uplifts in various domains of industry 5.0 such as advanced automation, digitalization, collaborative robots, and personalization bring this an inevitable mechano-scientific technological revolution in this current medical era.