Dieter Grob It is the merit of the "Bone and Joint in view of the generally reduced Decade" to draw our attention with health situation of the involved - increased intensity to the problem of tients. The important role of the the changes related to aging of our biphosphonates in the treatment, and musculoskeletal system and the asso- perhaps even more so in the prev- ciated socioeconomic implications. tion, of osteoporosis is emphasized In view of the increasing age of the by Fleisch. worldwide population the impact Any successful surgical treatment seems to be tremendous. I congratu- starts with accurate diagnostic pro- late the editors of the present supple- dures. The profound knowledge and ment