Rheumatology and Orthopedic Medicine (ROM) is an open access journal that publishes original papers, editorials, reviews, and commentaries on controversial issues, and correspondence in responses to recently published articles. Scope of interest include fundamental research on anatomy, histology, biology, and development of bones, cartilage, joints, tendons, muscles and vasculature within this organ system. Given that functioning of the musculoskeletal system is so dependent on communication within the body, studies on relevant aspects of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems which provide new insights into disease pathogenesis are of great importance. Clinical topics will include observation and interventional studies aimed at understanding the etiology of inflammatory and degenerative disease, environmental causes, and disease outcomes. Interventional studies may include retrospective data analysis, and prospective pilot studies as well as controlled clinical trials. In the area of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, identification and validation of biomarkers that help with predicting disease outcomes, guiding clinical interventions, such as drug selection or joint implant selection will be of significant value. Studies on new diagnostic approaches, invasive and non-invasive imaging via video arthroscopy, MRI, positron emission tomography, ultrasound, and immunofluorescence are wanting. We are open to publish studies that newly generate large data sets, which have been deposited in public databases and available to be mined by the scientific community. We seek new clinical instruments that accurately measure disease activity and existing organ damage. Studies aimed at validating existing biomarkers are equally welcome.
ROM will document high quality studies in use of arthroscopy, robotics and biomaterials in joint and tendon replacement and repair, use of biologics to treat autoimmune and degenerative diseases, prevention of venous thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis, pain management, pediatrics, practice management, sports medicine, trauma and physical medicine and rehabilitation. As the volumes build up, ROM will provide a go-to forum for the latest advances in our understanding of the biology and diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system.
