Dr. Rocco De Vitis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

MD at Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS Rome, Italy

Dr. Rocco De Vitis is a highly accomplished orthopedic and hand surgeon with over 20 years of clinical and research experience. He holds national qualifications as an Associate Professor in Orthopedics (MED-33) and Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (MED-19). Dr. De Vitis has authored more than 60 peer-reviewed publications and contributed to numerous international and multicenter clinical trials. His research spans innovative surgical techniques, anatomical studies, and interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on COVID-19. He serves on the editorial boards of respected journals such as BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders and Advances in Orthopedics and is an active faculty member at international surgical congresses. He is deeply involved in medical education, mentoring residents and supervising theses, and holds key roles in research ethics and surgical innovation. With a patent to his name and experience as a journal reviewer, Dr. De Vitis exemplifies a researcher committed to advancing orthopedic science and surgical excellence.

Professional Profile

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Strengths for the Award

Dr. Rocco De Vitis presents an exceptionally strong candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. His career reflects sustained, high-level contributions to the fields of orthopedic surgery, hand surgery, and microsurgery over more than two decades. He has:

Participated in numerous clinical trials, including international, multicenter, and phase 2/3 studies.
Published more than 60 peer-reviewed scientific papers, many in indexed and impact factor journals, spanning both surgical techniques and interdisciplinary research (e.g., dermatological implications of COVID-19).
Demonstrated a pioneering spirit through original anatomical research designs and responsible roles in several cadaveric and biomechanical studies.
Obtained national professorial qualifications (SSD MED-33 and MED-19), a testament to his academic and research excellence.
Served as a member of editorial boards for internationally recognized journals, such as BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders and Advances in Orthopedics.
Been invited to over 20 national and international congresses as a speaker, and served as faculty at high-level international conferences (e.g., IFSSH).
Held roles in research ethics, surgical innovation, and curriculum development, training residents and supervising master’s and specialization theses.

This combination of academic leadership, innovation in surgical practice, commitment to research dissemination, and international collaboration places Dr. De Vitis in the top tier of clinician-researchers.

Education

Dr. Rocco De Vitis obtained his medical degree from the University of Rome “La Sapienza,” followed by specialization in Orthopedics and Traumatology. He pursued further advanced training in hand surgery and microsurgery, which laid the foundation for his focus on upper limb pathologies. Committed to continuous education, Dr. De Vitis earned multiple national certifications, including the qualification to serve as Associate Professor in both SSD MED-33 (Orthopedic Surgery) and MED-19 (Rehabilitation Medicine). He has actively participated in numerous national and international workshops, courses, and fellowships to refine his surgical skills and research methodology. Additionally, he has contributed to training programs and thesis supervision for postgraduate students, strengthening his academic influence. His academic journey reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, teaching, and scientific inquiry, forming a strong foundation for his career in both patient care and research. Dr. De Vitis combines clinical expertise with a robust academic background in surgical science.

Experience

Dr. Rocco De Vitis has accumulated over 20 years of clinical and academic experience, focusing on orthopedic surgery, hand surgery, and microsurgery. He has served in various public and private hospitals in Italy, gaining hands-on expertise in both elective and trauma-related orthopedic procedures. Dr. De Vitis has led and participated in multidisciplinary teams addressing complex hand and upper limb conditions, employing both conservative and surgical approaches. His responsibilities have extended to teaching roles in medical schools, where he has supervised residents and postgraduate students. He has also coordinated anatomical and biomechanical research studies using cadaver models, contributing to surgical advancements and protocol development. Internationally, he has served as faculty at congresses and surgical training events. His work is marked by a strong emphasis on innovation, evidence-based care, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. De Vitis’s career reflects a balance between clinical excellence, academic leadership, and ongoing contributions to orthopedic research and education.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Rocco De Vitis has received multiple honors that highlight his excellence in orthopedic surgery and academic research. He has obtained the prestigious national qualification as Associate Professor in both Orthopedic Surgery (MED-33) and Rehabilitation Medicine (MED-19)—a recognition of his academic and clinical impact. His contributions to surgical innovation have been acknowledged at national and international conferences, where he has frequently been invited as a speaker and faculty member. Dr. De Vitis is a recognized member of leading scientific and professional societies, including SIGASCOT and IFSSH, which further affirms his standing in the orthopedic community. His research and publications have been cited in major journals, and he has served as a peer reviewer for top-tier orthopedic and medical science journals. In addition to his patent on an original surgical device, he has received recognition for his roles in clinical trials, medical education, and contributions to ethical research practice.

Research Focus on Medicine and Dentistry

Dr. Rocco De Vitis’s research focuses on orthopedic surgery, with a specialized interest in hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. His work explores surgical techniques, anatomical modeling, prosthetics, and tissue repair strategies, often using cadaveric and biomechanical studies to refine approaches. He has contributed significantly to the clinical management of carpal instability, tendon injuries, and fracture treatment. Dr. De Vitis has also engaged in interdisciplinary research, including dermatological manifestations of COVID-19 and rehabilitation protocols. He has participated in international multicenter clinical trials, contributing to the development of new surgical standards and devices. His research promotes evidence-based practices, with over 60 peer-reviewed publications and presentations at global scientific congresses. He is involved in research ethics and innovation, often proposing new protocols and surgical improvements. By integrating clinical observations with academic rigor, Dr. De Vitis aims to enhance patient outcomes and shape the future of orthopedic and microsurgical treatment.

Publications Top Notes

Efficacy of marrow-stimulating technique in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized study
- Authors: G. Milano, M.F. Saccomanno, S. Careri, G. Taccardo, R. De Vitis, …
- Year: 2013
- Citations: 156
Skin manifestations in COVID‐19 patients, state of the art. A systematic review
- Authors: A. Perna, M. Passiatore, A. Massaro, A. Terrinoni, L. Bianchi, V. Cilli, M. D’Orio, …
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 41
COVID-19 contagion and contamination through hands of trauma patients: what risks and what precautions?
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, L. Proietti, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 37
Ultra-micronized palmitoylethanolamide effects on sleep-wake rhythm and neuropathic pain in carpal tunnel syndrome
- Authors: M. Evangelista, V. Cilli, R. De Vitis, A. Militerno, F. Fanfani
- Year: 2018
- Citations: 37
The use of alfa-lipoic acid-R (ALA-R) in patients with mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome
- Authors: M. Passiatore, A. Perna, R. De Vitis, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 34
Modified Matti-Russe technique using a “butterfly bone graft” for scaphoid non-union
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, A. Tulli, A. Pagliei, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 33
Extraphyseal distal radius fracture in children: cast vs Epibloc system vs K-wire pinning
- Authors: M. Passiatore, R. De Vitis, A. Perna, M. D’Orio, V. Cilli, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 26
Italian version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ): validation study
- Authors: M. Passiatore, R. De Vitis, V. Cilli, G. Milano, M.F. Saccomanno, C. Cotroneo, …
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 24
Intramedullary nailing for treatment of forearm non-union: a case series
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, V. Cilli, J. Maffeis, G. Milano, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 24
Shape memory staple + PRP vs staple alone for scaphoid nonunion
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, G.F. Cinci, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2019
- Citations: 23
Surgical treatment of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis
- Authors: G. Taccardo, R. De Vitis, G. Parrone, G. Milano, F. Fanfani
- Year: 2013
- Citations: 21
Secondary wrist arthritis and capitate pyrocarbon resurfacing (RCPI)
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, V. Cilli, E. Pamelin, C. Velluto, I. Ceravolo, …
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 18
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and early lower extremity arterial disease
- Authors: L. Santoro, P.M. Ferraro, A. Nesci, A. D’Alessandro, N. Macerola, F. Forni, …
- Year: 2021
- Citations: 18
Seven-year clinical outcomes after collagenase injection for Dupuytren’s disease
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, S. Careri, V. Cilli, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2020
- Citations: 18
Use of PRP in fixation of subacute proximal pole scaphoid fractures
- Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, V. Cilli, I. Ponzo, G. Taccardo
- Year: 2022
- Citations: 9
Triangular osteosynthesis and lumbopelvic fixation in posterior pelvic ring injuries: a systematic review
- Authors: G. Rovere, D. De Mauro, A. Smakaj, G. Sassara, R. De Vitis, P. Farsetti, …
- Year: 2024
- Citations: 8

🎯 Conclusion

Dr. Rocco De Vitis stands out as a dynamic force in modern orthopedic surgery and clinical research. With decades of experience, his multidisciplinary expertise bridges surgical precision with academic depth, making him a leader in both patient care and scientific discovery. His research, notably in hand surgery, orthopedic trauma, and innovative treatments such as platelet-rich plasma and nerve repair, reflects a commitment to advancing evidence-based medicine. Dr. De Vitis’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic highlight his responsiveness to global health challenges. His work has not only shaped clinical practices but also earned substantial academic recognition, as seen through high citation rates and prestigious journal publications. Equally dedicated to mentorship and teaching, he actively shapes future generations of orthopedic specialists. Through continuous innovation, ethical integrity, and patient-centered care, Dr. De Vitis has built a legacy that bridges tradition and technological progress in musculoskeletal medicine. His impact is both lasting and inspiring.

Prof. Raquel Conceicao | Biomedical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor with habilitation, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Biophysics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Portugal

🌟 Raquel Conceição is an award-winning assistant professor and researcher with habilitation at the University of Lisbon, Portugal. She is a pioneer in the field of medical microwave imaging in Portugal, being the first PhD graduate in this area. Raquel has led numerous high-impact European-funded projects, advancing medical imaging technology, and has made significant contributions to biomedical engineering and signal processing. As a professor and researcher, she continues to inspire and lead her students in groundbreaking projects.

Publication Profile

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Education

🎓 Raquel holds a PhD in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from the National University of Ireland Galway (2011) and an Integrated Master’s in Biomedical Engineering from the NOVA University of Lisbon (2007). She has pursued extensive post-doctoral work, focusing on medical microwave imaging and biomedical engineering.

Experience

💼 Raquel has taught 13 different courses at the University of Lisbon and supervised 7 PhD and 33 Master’s students. She served as the vice-president of the Department of Physics, making notable contributions to internal and external outreach activities. She was also the vice-coordinator and coordinator of the Master’s in Biomedical Engineering and Biophysics programs, where she played a key leadership role.

Research Focus

🔬 Raquel’s primary research focus lies in developing medical microwave imaging techniques to detect and classify breast cancer and metastasised lymph nodes. Her broader interests include machine learning, biomedical engineering, signal processing, and electronic engineering.

Awards and Honours

🏆 Raquel has received substantial recognition for her contributions to medical microwave imaging, including leading the first international project in this field and being awarded numerous prestigious European grants. She has attracted millions in research funding, with projects totaling over €7.85M, and has received personal funding for her contributions to scientific research.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Raquel has authored 35 journal papers, 65 conference proceedings, and edited 4 books. She has also collaborated with over 100 international researchers, contributing to various Q1 journals such as Sensors. She organized a special issue in Sensors, highlighting her leadership in academic publishing.

“Development of Medical Microwave Imaging for Early Breast Cancer Detection” (2020), Sensors, cited by 85 articles. Link to article.

“Innovative Techniques in Microwave Imaging for Biomedical Applications” (2018), Biomedical Engineering Letters, cited by 45 articles. Link to article.