Orthopaedic Surgery Research
Basic Science Faculty
Research Opportunities
Research efforts in the orthopaedic department aim to provide a deeper understanding of the complex nature of the human skeletal system, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of surgical procedures and treatments in the following areas of expertise:
- Trauma / fixation
- Spinal injuries and disorders
- Sports medicine
- Hand and foot disorders
- Hip and knee replacements
All faculty and residents participate in research. Each attending usually has at least one ongoing clinical research project.
As a result of a direct collaboration with the Bioengineering Department, we have
established the Engineering Center for Orthopaedic Research Excellence (E-CORE). Dr. Vijay K. Goel is the current director. The Center includes an interdisciplinary
team of investigators from diverse fields such as medicine (e.g., orthopaedics, anatomy,
radiology), engineering (bioengineering, mechanical, chemical), bone metabolic diseases
(e.g. endocrinology, bone biology, bone marrow stem cells) and allied health care
professionals such as kinesiology and physical therapy. The Center provides an opportunity
for the group to work together to understand the complex nature of the human skeletal
system, like the hip, knee and spine.
The Department of Orthopaedics also has a collaboration with the Bone Biology Lab, if a resident wishes to pursue basic science research during their training. Here, we specifically perform a variety of studies to reveal more about human mesenchymal stem cells and the implications of diabetes and bone characteristics.
The mission for research within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is to support and conduct research involving patients that shapes the future of evidence-based orthopaedic practice. This includes support of clinically relevant research involving patients to answer questions related to the usefulness of examination procedures and diagnostic tests, the effectiveness, efficacy and safety of surgery and other therapeutic interventions and the power of prognostic indicators.
The goals and objectives for research within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery are to:
- Seek industry, foundation and federal funding to support research
- Collaborate with basic scientists to enhance translational research
- Provide advice and support related to research design and data analysis
- Educate and mentor fellows, residents and students
- Perform scientific and risk management review
- Ensure compliance with all regulations governing clinical and translational research
The orthopaedic department at UToledo is one of the most published in the country. A team of highly-skilled physicians, many of whom are known nationally, is complemented by a dedicated group of research faculty.