Published online Jul 18, 2017. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v8.i7.531
Peer-review started: December 20, 2016
First decision: January 28, 2017
Revised: February 5, 2017
Accepted: April 18, 2017
Article in press: April 20, 2017
Published online: July 18, 2017
Processing time: 207 Days and 11.8 Hours
Bone morphogenetic proteins are osteoinductive factors which have gained popularity in orthopaedic surgery and especially in spine surgery. The use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 has been officially approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration only for single level anterior lumbar interbody fusion, nevertheless it is widely used by many surgeons with off-label indications. Despite advantages in bone formation, its use still remains a controversial issue and several complications have been described by authors who oppose their wide use.
Core tip: The use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 is widely used in spine surgery not only in approved indications but also in off-label indications. Despite its ability to promote fusion there are many reported disadvantages. That’s why the Yale University Open Data project aims to serve both the patients but also the companies which fund the vast majority of research in medical products.