What began in 1973 as a research center of the AUVA and officially became LBI Trauma in 1980 is now an internationally recognized center of excellence for translational research in trauma and regenerative medicine. The institute’s work focuses on improving diagnosis, treatment, and recovery after injury – always with a strong focus on patient benefit. This success has only been possible thanks to the close partnership with the AUVA, which has supported the integration of basic research and clinical application from the very beginning.

A day dedicated to science

The “Day of Medical Sciences” brought together around 100 participants from clinical practice, administration, and research and was fully booked weeks in advance. Through lectures and interactive stations, the event demonstrated how vibrant and hands-on research can be done today.

Visitors had the chance to peer into the lab using microscopes, VR headsets, and a micro-CT scanner. Presentations ranged from ethical aspects of clinical trials and personalized diagnostics to regenerative medicine. The event was organized by Priv.-Doz. Dr. Gerhard Fritsch and DDr. Johannes Zipperle, whose goal was to lower the barriers to active participation in research and strengthen the dialogue between clinicians and scientists.

The practical impact of research was illustrated by several contributions: Priv.-Doz. Dr. Herbert Schöchl put forward the life-saving role of individualized coagulation diagnostics, while Dr. Regina Brunauer spoke about natural regeneration processes in bone healing. Ethical and regulatory frameworks were also discussed, with Dr. Stefan Strasser speaking on the importance of clinical trials in evidence-based medicine and Mag. Andrea Stockhammer corroborating the AUVA Ethics Committee’s role in ensuring responsible research.

From fibrin glue to an innovation hub

A highlight of the day was the keynote by Prof. Dr. Heinz Redl, whose leadership as director left a lasting mark on the institute’s development. Under his guidance, international research networks were established, and pioneering innovations, such as the early development of fibrin glue applicator systems, became global standards.

Since its founding, LBI Trauma has published more than 1,800 scientific papers, including 25 habilitations and 97 dissertations, and has hosted major international conferences such as the Wiggers-Bernard Conferences, the TERMIS World Congress 2012, and the 2023 anniversary congress of the European Shock Society. Today, over 80 researchers from fields including molecular biology, biomechanics, and clinical medicine are working at the institute to develop new strategies for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of trauma-related complications. Thanks to its proximity to AUVA hospitals, scientific insights can be rapidly translated into clinical care.

Looking ahead, LBI Trauma will continue to link scientific progress with social responsibility. With the planned Research and Innovation Hub in Vienna-Brigittenau, developed in collaboration with the LBI for Osteology, the institute is creating new spaces for interdisciplinary projects and start-ups. A key focus for the future will be aging research, because as cells age, healing slows and injury risk increases. In a rapidly aging society, this challenge is gaining critical relevance.