Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening

Research Divisions – Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction

The Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction is made up of four research divisions: the Division of Tissue Adaptation and Neogenesis, the Division of Skeletal Fixation Systems Design, the Division of Clinical Implementation and Data Management and the Division of Clinical Applications and Training.

Division of Tissue Adaptation and Neogenesis
The Division of Tissue Adaptation and Neogenesis, led by Dr. Marina Makarov, focuses on the areas of new bone formation under the influence of tensional stresses and soft tissue adaptation to gradual traction during distraction osteogenesis. This division manages all experimental studies and allows the hospital’s researchers and physicians to analyze and better understand the fundamental biological mechanisms of limb lengthening and reconstruction.

Division of Skeletal Fixation Systems Design
The Division of Skeletal Fixation Systems Design, directed by Dr. Mikhail Samchukov, coordinates the design, development, testing and implementation of the existing TRUE/LOK™ External Fixation System. This division also focuses on developing a new modular external fixation system for acute fracture reduction, gradial deformity correction and lengthening. The division supports the hospital’s research staff in developing new and improving existing techniques of distraction osteogenesis and external skeletal fixation devices for correcting limb deficiencies in different regions of the human skeleton.

Division of Clinical Implementation and Data Management
Led by Dr. Alexander Cherkashin, the Division of Clinical Implementation and Data Management coordinates all outcome studies involving computer-assisted data collection, storage, analysis and treatment planning. Through the computer-assisted treatment planning lab, directed by Hong Lin, M.S., and the Ilizarov data management lab, this division will continue to develop the LegPERFECT^® preoperative planning program. The program provides comprehensive planning and monitoring of the deformity correction process with external fixation devices. The Ilizarov data management lab performs clinical data collection and analysis for outcome studies to help develop a universal knowledge base of the hospital’s Ilizarov patients. These advancements in technology and data management will help create the foundation for multicenter clinical studies to improve the effectiveness of pediatric limb lengthening and deformity correction for patients around the world.

Division of Clinical Applications and Training
The Division of Clinical Applications and Training, directed by Dr. John Birch, allows for efficient collaboration between research and clinical staff in the Center for Excellence in Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction. This division manages all retrospective and prospective Ilizarov clinical studies on limb lengthening and reconstruction and supervises all clinical training on distraction osteogenesis and external skeletal fixation techniques. This management and supervision will enable the center to present cohesive educational materials and move forward in expanding knowledge about limb lengthening and reconstruction.