Spine Research Program

Under the direction of Sara Morgan, PhD, and Dan Miller, MD, the Spine Research Program conducts high quality studies aimed at improving the quality, safety, and value of pediatric spine care.

Gillette investigators collaborate regularly with scientists, orthotists, therapists, engineers, and patients to design novel research studies that addresses clinically relevant issues. Our surgeons are active participants in the multicenter Pediatric Spine Study Group (PSSG) and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS). These efforts have led to numerous publications and presentations at local, regional, national, and international subspecialty conferences

Areas of Spine Research

Determining the optimal treatment for treatment of infantile idiopathic scoliosis (serial casting or bracing)
Assessing the efficacy of nocturnal/part-time braces compared to traditional braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Assessing outcomes and patient satisfaction related to scoliosis specific exercises (Schroth therapy)
Creating new advanced-imaging sequences to prognosticate which patients may be at risk for treatment failure with bracing in idiopathic scoliosis
Using patient education and virtual reality to decrease stress and anxiety related to spinal fusion surgery
Understanding long term outcomes of pediatric spinal deformity (treated and untreated) into adulthood