91´óÉñ

We’re at the center where engineering, clinical medicine, and data science converge to address the unique challenges of pediatric orthopedic conditions. Unlike adult orthopedics, we focus on the complexities of growing bones and developing bodies, where each intervention must account for years of future growth and development.

Focus Areas

We concentrate research efforts in these key areas.

Straightening Paths:ÌýScoliosis & Other Spinal Conditions Research

Our spine research directly impacts thousands of children with scoliosis and spinal deformities annually. By improving surgical techniques and pain management protocols, we help children experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and better long-term outcomes. Our predictive models help families make informed decisions at optimal times, potentially avoiding more invasive procedures during crucial developmental years. Key research areas include:

• Anterior vertebral body tethering for progressive curves.
• Multimodal pain management following spine surgery.
• Predictive models for scoliosis progression and treatment response.

Restoring Function: Cerebral Palsy & Neuromuscular Disorders Research

Our research directly improves mobility and independence for children with cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders. We study how disease-modifying treatments affect skeletal development to help children maintain function and avoid complications. Our world-renowned gait laboratory informs precise, personalized surgical decisions that maximize each child's movement potential, helping them participate more fully in school, recreation, and family life. Specific initiatives help to:

• Leverage our large institutional CP database to answer key questions relating to gait function, hip instability, scoliosis, and more.
• Evaluate the effects of disease-modifying therapies on skeletal development.
• Perform translational research through international, national, and 91´óÉñ collaborations.

Correcting Rare Conditions: Skeletal Dysplasia Research

Children with skeletal dysplasias face unique challenges affecting multiple aspects of their lives. Our research into specialized surgical techniques and treatment approaches helps these children achieve better mobility, reduced pain, and improved function. By developing better corrections for limb deformities and spinal complications, we help children with rare conditions participate more fully in activities and gain independence. Current investigations include:

• Specialized surgical techniques for limb deformities in achondroplasia.
• Spinal complications and cervical spine instability management.
• Natural history studies of rare skeletal disorders.

Strengthening Foundations: Osteogenesis Imperfecta Research

Our approach to treating osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) has demonstrated excellent outcomes with dramatically reduced complication rates. By developing specialized techniques and comprehensive care approaches, we help children with OI achieve greater independence and improved function despite their complex condition, allowing more participation in everyday activities. Current research focuses on:

• Multimodal approaches to treating severe scoliosis in OI patients.
• Surgical techniques for limb deformity correction in OI.
• Effects of bisphosphonate treatment on bone quality and fracture healing.

Advancing Movement Science: Gait Laboratory Research

Our internationally recognized gait laboratory transforms how we understand and treat movement disorders in children. By analyzing the complex interactions during walking, we precisely identify mobility challenges and design targeted interventions. This ensures children receive exactly what they need, maximizing functional improvements that help them play, learn, and develop alongside their peers. Key areas include:

• Developing predictive models for surgical decision-making using gait data.
• Evaluating long-term functional outcomes following multi-level surgeries.
• Creating new assessment tools to quantify movement quality in clinical settings.

Rebuilding Possibilities: Lower & Upper Limb Reconstruction ResearchÌý

For children with limb differences, our reconstruction research opens doors to greater independence and participation. By developing innovative approaches to prosthetics, limb lengthening, and pain management, we help children overcome physical limitations and develop confidence. These advancements improve not only physical function but also how children view themselves and their future possibilities. Our current research includes:

• Novel prosthetic systems for pediatric limb deficiency.
• Intramedullary techniques for limb lengthening.
• Psychological aspects of limb reconstruction procedures.

Preserving Mobility: Hip Disorders Research

Our research on hip disorders addresses conditions crucial for children's mobility and long-term joint health. By studying hip displacement patterns, surveillance protocols, and reconstructive techniques, we help prevent painful complications and preserve function. Early detection and intervention for conditions like developmental hip dysplasia can mean the difference between normal mobility and lifelong limitations, improving outcomes for children from infancy through adolescence. Our studies investigate:

• Hip displacement patterns in cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders.
• Surveillance protocols for at-risk populations.
• Long-term functional outcomes following pediatric hip interventions.

Returning to Play: Sports Medicine ResearchÌý

Our sports medicine research focuses on the unique needs of young athletes, addressing both injury treatment and prevention. By developing age-appropriate procedures and rehabilitation protocols, we help injured children return to sports safely while reducing reinjury risk. This research not only addresses immediate injuries but promotes long-term joint health and continued participation in physical activities that are vital for children's development and well-being. Current studies investigate:

• ACL reconstruction techniques and outcomes in adolescents.
• Prevention programs for common athletic injuries.
• Management of growth plate injuries in young athletes.