The OBL recently initiated a program in spine research centered around collaborations with             Drs. Kirkham Wood and Glenn Buttermann, prominent orthopaedic surgeons specializing             in the spine. Project areas include vertebral fusion, spinal trauma, disc replacement and

scoliosis. Current research focuses on the use of bioresorbable polymers in spinal fusions.             Unlike metal implants, the body resorbs polymeric devices after the fusion is complete,

thereby reducing complications and the need for further surgery.             A study was completed which determined the relative efficacy of various posterior             constructs to augment anterior interbody fusions. In an effort to improve stabilization after             spinal trauma and complement a related clinical study, a project is in progress that             compares the biomechanical efficacy of different methods for treating thoracolumbar burst             fractures. A unique implant for disc replacement is in the process development and testing.             A program to develop a novel method for treating scoliosis is being initiated.