The staff is also involved with educational programs for trainers and coaches in the community, and with research studies in knee biomechanics and knee ligament injuries. A fully equipped and staffed gait and kinesiology laboratory is also available through this service for thorough computer analysis of gait and motion problems. The Vanderbilt Department of Orthopaedics offers its Residents comprehensive experience in total joint replacement. This includes primary replacement of the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle joints using both cemented and uncemented techniques. FDA-monitored investigations of uncemented prostheses have been undertaken as well as clinical trials of new, conventionally fixed prostheses.
Basic research includes biomechanical analysis and design of implants for total joint replacements.
This service also specializes in the treatment of complex ankle fractures and reconstructive surgery for adults with post-traumatic lower extremity problems. Other foot disorders treated include bunions, metatarsalgia, hammer toe deformities, painful heel syndrome, and symptomatic pes planus. Basic research in foot mechanics is aimed at improving fusion techniques in the foot and ankle as well as artificial ankle replacement. The Pediatric Orthopaedic Service provides extensive outpatient and inpatient experience in the diagnosis and treatment of all musculoskeletal diseases of children. Most inpatients are housed in the Children's Hospital, on the fifth and sixth floors of Vanderbilt University Hospital.