Orthopaedics Research

Cincinnati Children’s Division of Orthopaedics is dedicated to using groundbreaking research to enhance the care of children, adolescents and young adults with musculoskeletal conditions. We focus on innovative treatments, improved diagnostics and shaping the future of orthopaedic care through collaborative scientific efforts.

Innovative Research Approaches

Our research encompasses many pediatric orthopaedic areas, integrating lab discoveries with clinical applications to deliver effective solutions for our patients.

• Basic research: Investigating the biological mechanisms behind musculoskeletal disorders to identify new treatment pathways.
• Clinical research: Conducting trials and clinical studies to evaluate novel therapies for conditions such as fractures, brachial plexus injuries and spinal deformities.
• Translational Studies: Bridging the gap between basic research and clinical applications to enhance patient care globally.

Specialized Research Areas

Our focus spans various orthopaedic conditions, addressing common and rare disorders to improve diagnosis, treatment and patient outcomes. Key areas include:

• Spinal disorders (including early onset and fusionless correction)
• Hip Preservation Program
• Brachial plexus injuries
• Trauma management (fractures)
• Sports medicine (e.g., osteochondritis dissecans)
• Congenital musculoskeletal disorders
• Musculoskeletal oncology

Advanced Tools and Resources

Cincinnati Children’s provides a robust research infrastructure featuring:

• State-of-the-art imaging technologies for precise diagnostics.
• Cutting-edge laboratory facilities for biomechanical and molecular studies.
• Experienced research teams, including dedicated coordinators and biostatisticians, to support clinical trials.

Impact on Patient Treatment

Research in the Division of Orthopaedics leads to significant advancements in how we care for youth with musculoskeletal conditions. Our work has contributed to:

• Improved management protocols for spinal deformities
• Enhanced diagnostic tools for trauma cases
• Development of innovative therapies for congenital disorders
• Advancements in surgical and orthopaedic techniques for pediatric patients

Collaborations and Partnerships

We actively engage in collaborations that propel the field of pediatric orthopaedics forward. Our involvement includes:

• Multicenter studies funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) focusing on trauma outcomes and spinal health
• Multicenter studies funded by multiple foundations focusing on improving lifelong outcomes of brachial plexus birth injuries
• National and international research networks aimed at advancing pediatric orthopaedic practices
• Collaboration with other divisions within Cincinnati Children’s to develop multidisciplinary care programs
• Founding of the Neuromuscular Development Group bringing together scientists from diverse divisions to improve scientific understanding of neuromuscular disorders.
• Founding of Plexus Nexus, an international working group devoted to advancing care for brachial plexus birth injuries.

Shaping Future Orthopaedic Leaders

We are committed to training the next generation of specialists in pediatric orthopaedics. Our residency and fellowship programs emphasize a blend of clinical expertise and research innovation.

• Residency program: Comprehensive training across pediatric orthopaedics, ranked among the best in the nation
• Fellowship opportunities: Specialized tracks focusing on areas such as spinal surgery, sports medicine, trauma and congenital disorders
• Student research opportunities: Partnering with the University of Cincinnati, providing clinical and basic science research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate / medical students

Grants

Cincinnati Children's Division of Orthopaedics is the recipient of several grants which support our ongoing research efforts:

• NIH R01 grant investigating the molecular pathogenesis of neuromuscular contractures following brachial plexus birth injury
• Collaborative NIH R01 grant with NC State University investigating musculoskeletal deformity following brachial plexus birth injury 
• IMPACCT study with Lurie Children’s
• OREF / AOSSM Multicenter research grant with Hospital for Special Surgery
• Sturm Spirometery with University of Colorado
• ConMed for JUPITER
• AHTF grant for the development of a novel pediatric hand and upper extremity patient-reported outcome measure

These grants provide valuable funding and resources that allow us to continue making significant advancements in pediatric orthopaedics.

Looking Ahead

Our goals include expanding our research into emerging areas—such as genomics and regenerative medicine—while strengthening collaborative partnerships across institutions. We aim to set the stage for groundbreaking discoveries and improved treatments in pediatric orthopaedics.