PRESENTATION

The need for constant updating on the latest pharmacological, surgical and rehabilitative treatment opportunities as well as the importance of learning about modern investigative techniques which are the result of a technological evolution that is increasingly accurate and reliable in providing information useful for the clinical management of pathologies of the locomotor apparatus, have been the inspiration and the driving force behind the organization of this 5th edition of the International Multidisciplinary Congress:
“Clinical and Rehabilitative Approach to Rheumatology. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy: what synergies are possible?”.
There is now complete agreement between area and apparatus specialists in considering that only by following the logic of fully sharing all patient-related information, will it be possible to develop adequate diagnostic and therapeutic programmes which can guide the physician in the difficult process of providing patient care.
Today it is no longer possible to imagine work being divided into watertight compartments: we have to recognize the validity of constant cultural interchange which, quite apart from questions of merit or professional skills, leads to full cooperation in order to achieve a common objective together.
Organization, effectiveness, efficiency, skill and professionalism are all abstract terms which denote both the operational cornerstones on which our work as physicians should be based, and the key elements that characterize all our efforts.
Another significant aspect of patient management is the scientific evidence of a possible synergy between pharmacological treatment, which is nowadays very much divided into procedures aimed increasingly at improving the optimum efficacy-safety-costs ratio, and non-pharmacological treatment, both rehabilitative and surgical, which is aimed at achieving a constant improvement in the outcome for the patient being treated.
Lastly, particular attention has been paid to the training aspect for young specialists: through the frank and stimulating exchange of practical experience they will be able to keep up with the latest investigative techniques and shared multidisciplinary treatment protocols, by attending the pre-congress courses organized during the interactive sessions.
I will conclude the presentation by expressing my hope and my wish that this latest edition of “Reumantova 2010” may serve to improve our relationship with our patients and to encourage greater professional interaction and integration among all specialists whose work concerns the problems of the locomotor apparatus.

Giovannni Arioli

Cover: Particular of a fresco set in Sala dei Giganti, Palazzo Te, Mantova.