SmILE Project – Join Our Interview Study: Share Your Experience
Help Shape the Future of Smart Implants in Luxembourg
What is SmILE?
The SmILE project (Smart Implants for Life Enrichment) is a large European research initiative focused on developing innovative, patient-centred solutions to improve bone and joint health and the treatment of so-called musculoskeletal diseases, particularly in an ageing population. In Luxembourg it is led by the Luxembourg Institute of Health, at the Human Motion, Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine and Digital Methods (HOSD).
SmILE develops smart implants such as artificial hip or knee replacements and bone fracture plates with embedded sensors and intelligent analytics towards better, faster and personalized rehabilitation. These smart implants shall help doctors and patients to keep track of how well your body is healing and recovering and for instance, in case of any problems, may warn without the need for extra scans. These technologies aim to support recovery, detect possible complications at an early stage, and help people maintain their mobility and independence.
Study objectives:
The study aims to explore:
- How patients past, current or future and healthcare professionals perceive smart orthopaedic implants
- Factors influencing acceptance, trust, and usability
- Ethical considerations such as data privacy and security
- Barriers and facilitators to adoption in clinical practice
The results will contribute to improving the design, communication, and responsible integration of these technologies in healthcare.
How can you participate?
We invite two groups to participate in this study:
- Participants (patients or members of the public): Adults (18 years or older) who have undergone, are eligible for, or may in the future require orthopaedic implant surgery, or who have experience with musculoskeletal conditions.
- Healthcare professionals (HCPs):
- Clinicians involved in orthopaedic care or rehabilitation, including surgeons, physiotherapists, and nursing staff with relevant clinical experience.
What participation involves:
Participation consists of a one-to-one semi-structured interview, lasting approximately 30 to 60 minutes. The interview can take place:
- In person at the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH)
- By telephone
- Online via a secure platform
During the interview, participants will be invited to share their views on smart implant technologies, including their expectations, concerns, and perceived benefits.
All interviews will be audio-recorded, transcribed, and anonymised for analysis. Participation is entirely voluntary, and individuals may withdraw at any time without providing a reason.
Why your participation matters:
Your participation will contribute to shaping the future of orthopaedic care. The insights gathered will support the development of patient-centred and ethically responsible smart implant technologies, both in Luxembourg and across Europe.
Compensation:
Participants who take part in interviews during their regular working hours may receive a voucher as compensation for the time dedicated to the study. This compensation reflects time taken away from professional duties and is intended to acknowledge their contribution without constituting a financial incentive.
If participation takes place outside of working hours, no compensation will be offered.
How to get in touch:
If you are interested in taking part or would like more information, please contact us by using the details below:
📧smile@lih.lu or ☎️ 00 352 2 697 0721
Participants will receive full study information and consent materials prior to participation, and all procedures will only begin after informed consent has been obtained.
The complete study documentation can already be downloaded via the links below:
Additional ways to contribute to the SmILE project
1. Take a European Survey 🇪🇺
Share your experience and help shape the future of smart implants by taking our short online survey today!
– Short (10-15min) questionnaire
– Anonymous
🇬🇧 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/SmILE_Patient_Survey
🇩🇪 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/SmILE_Patient_Survey?surveylanguage=DE
🇫🇷 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/SmILE_Patient_Survey?surveylanguage=FR
🇵🇹 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/SmILE_Patient_Survey?surveylanguage=PT
The Patient Advisory Board (PAB) brings together individuals with lived experience of musculoskeletal conditions to collaborate directly with researchers. As a PAB member you join a team of scientists and become a researcher yourself. You will be an active contributor collaborating with researchers to integrate patient needs into the development of future smart implants.
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