Orthopedic Resident Research

The SIU Division of Orthopedic Surgery believes strongly in the importance of advancing the practice of orthopedics through clinical and basic science research. Residents are expected to complete one publishable manuscript within their 5 years of training. However, most residents complete or help contribute to several studies during their tenure. Our attending staff have trained in some of the most prestigious programs in the county (and world) and provide invaluable guidance and support when it comes to designing, implementing and modifying a research project.

There is a wide variety of research actively going on at SIU. Basic science projects include biomechanical studies utilizing cadaveric tissue, computer modeling and anatomic studies. Radiographic analyses of trochanteric morphology, acetabular dysplasia and joint space narrowing about the knee are ongoing. Clinical research in pediatrics, sports medicine, adult reconstruction, spine surgery, fracture care, perioperative management, and infection prevention have been of recent focus. Several novel surgical procedures have also been recently described.

Research Support

Through our affiliation with the SIU School of Medicine, we have access to support staff from top to bottom. Library staff make finding resources easy and facilitate the acquisition of literature the university does not already own. Clinical research coordinators and statistical support is available through the SIU Center for Clinical and Translational Research. The Department of Surgery maintains a full-time cohort of research staff as well. Lab access and bench research opportunities are available through the School of Medicine. The EMRs utilized in our community make acquiring data easy. Finally, the Division of Orthopedics coordinates a medical student Orthopedics Interest Group (OIG) which, among other things, helps pair interested medical students with residents in need of research help.

Presentations

Residents are encouraged to present their research at the regional, national and international levels. Financial support is available to ensure abstracts that are accepted can be presented by the resident who completed the project. Recently, residents have presented research at:

  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  • American Orthopaedic Association
  • Canadian Orthopaedic Association
  • MidAmerican Orthopaedic Association
  • Orthopaedic Trauma Association
  • Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America
  • American College of Surgeons
  • American Society for Surgery of the Hand