A principal function of the laboratory is the training of orthopaedic residents in the field of biomechanics research. Much of the funding for these projects has been obtained from the orthopaedic device industry. The lab has an MTS biaxial materials testing system, an Instron uniaxial materials testing systen, a sonic 3-dimensional motion measuring system, associated computer data acquisition and analysis systems, and a fully equipped machine shop. One of Our Current Research Programs The Biomechanics of Spinal Fusion and Disc Replacements - Nearly 50,000 spinal fusion surgeries are performed in the United States every year. This procedure is intended to stabilize the spine and potentially reduce low-back and radiating pain by eliminating motion across one or more joints in the low back to induce a bony union between adjacent vertebrae.
Poor outcomes can include a failure of the vertebrae to fuse and contined instability and pain.
Consequently, a myriad of devices have been developed to facilitate fusion across one or more spinal vertebrae. Unfortunately, even successful fusion surgeries may eventually lead to progression of low-back problems resulting from accelerated deterioration of the spinal levels adjacent to the fusion. Dr. Hedman has developed a unique experimental and analytical approach to accurately measure and deduce the biomechanical properties of intact and fused spinal segments. These techniques will enable the USC spinal research team to determine the appropriate angulation and intervertebral height to promote consistent, positive outcomes for lumbar spinal fusion surgeries. Perhaps disc replacements will supplant fusions as the treatment of choice for low-back biomechanical benefits of disc replacement over spinal fusion.