Founded in 1953 as a separate department of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is committed to delivering the highest quality of diagnostic and therapeutic patient care to both adults and children for a diverse spectrum of orthopaedic disorders. To support that care, research has always been at the core of our identity. Our active laboratories and research units have pushed boundaries and been celebrated in their respective disciplines, embodying our commitment to innovation and excellence in the wider realm of orthopaedics.
Currently, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh has one of the largest research programs in musculoskeletal systems in the country, including housing the Bethel Family Musculoskeletal Research Center (BMRC), an innovative center formed to support young, early-career researchers and foster the education of the next generation of orthopaedic and MSK researchers. In addition, the BMRC BioBank, the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, will be an encyclopedic and accurate data bank for tissue and other biologic information.
Our laboratories manage research topics ranging from molecular, cellular, and stem cell biology to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, providing intellectual intersection and abundant opportunities for scientific collaboration between PIs and other investigators when needed.
Improves functional outcomes in the non-operative and operative treatment of knee and hip arthritis, optimize implant performance, and preserve joint function; expertise in translational research and clinical studies.
Dr. Kenneth Urish, Director
Investigates relationships between dynamic joint function and joint disease, injury, and treatment to improve diagnosis and care of orthopaedic conditions; assess the dynamic function of joints and musculoskeletal tissues.
Dr. William Anderst, Director
The program sets the “standard of care,” for this injury by employing a targeted evidence-based approach to assessment, management, and treatment of patients with concussion.
Dr. Michael Collins, Director; Dr. Anthony Kontos, Research Director
Targets molecular approaches to the treatment of spinal disorders; actively engaged in the development of novel cell and molecular biology-based treatments of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Dr. Gwendolyn Sowa, Dr. Nam Vo, Dr. Joon Lee, Co-Directors
The Foot and Ankle Injury Research Group (FAIR) is a multidisciplinary team focused on the study of foot and ankle injuries, spanning the basic science and translational research domains, with extensive experience across sports-related and degenerative conditions.
Dr. MaCalus Hogan, Dr. Jarrett Cain, Co-Directors
Performs research in areas of fibroblast mechanobiology, soft-tissue wound healing, functional tissue engineering, and biological applications of microfabrication and sensor technologies.
Dr. James Wang, Director
Investigates pharmacological and molecular approaches to target metastatic osteosarcoma and bone metastases of breast cancer. The main focus is on establishing a vigorous, comprehensive research program for sarcoma and metastatic bone disease.
Dr. Kurt Weiss, Director
Studies comprehensive profiles of an individual's function by evaluating both the sensory and motor characteristics specific to musculoskeletal injury and pathology.
Dr. Bradley C. Nindl, Director
Focuses on human joint and tissue mechanics using different mechanical engineering methods to test and to evaluate joint function, the effects of injury and surgical tissue reconstruction.
Dr. Patrick Smolinski, Director
Focuses on the prevention of degenerative joint disease by improving diagnostic, repair, and rehabilitation procedures for musculoskeletal injuries using state-of-the-art robotic technology.
Dr. Volker Musahl, Dr. Richard E. Debski, Co-Directors
Applies the principles of cellular and molecular science and engineering to restore tissue and organ functions, through basic science foundations treating injuries and disease of the musculoskeletal system.
Dr. Hang Lin, Director