Research Program Overview

Spine surgeries are common procedures, but they often come with a long and painful recovery period. Despite recent advancements in technology, patients still frequently face complications such as failed healing and significant pain during recovery. To address this challenge, we are collaborating with Amir Alavi, PhD, to develop innovative spinal implants made from meta-tribomaterials.

These 3D-printable implants have properties that are computationally designed rather than inherent, allowing for precise control over their behavior to improve patient specificity. Additionally, the implants can harness the micromotions of the spine to generate biologically safe electrical energy. This energy can be used to monitor the forces acting on the spine and provide electrical stimulation, which helps expedite the healing process, reduce pain, and allow patients to return to their daily activities more quickly.

Primary Research Areas

• Meta-tribomaterial design and computational modeling
• Energy harvesting from spine micromotions
• Biologically safe electrical energy generation
• Real-time force monitoring systems
• Therapeutic electrical stimulation protocols
• 3D-printable implant architectures
• Patient-specific implant customization
• Bone fusion enhancement technologies
• Pain reduction mechanisms
• Accelerated healing and recovery protocols

Research Methodology

Our research program employs advanced computational design techniques to engineer meta-tribomaterial properties that optimize energy harvesting efficiency and therapeutic outcomes. We utilize sophisticated finite element analysis and machine learning algorithms to predict implant behavior under physiological loading conditions and design optimal geometries for energy generation.

The 3D-printing fabrication process allows for precise control over implant microstructure and enables patient-specific customization. Comprehensive testing protocols include biomechanical characterization, energy harvesting efficiency assessment, and biocompatibility studies. We collaborate with clinical partners to evaluate the safety and efficacy of electrical stimulation protocols in controlled research environments.

Current Initiatives

Energy-Harvesting Fusion Cages: Development of 3D-printed interbody fusion devices that convert spine micromotions into electrical energy for continuous monitoring and therapeutic stimulation to enhance bone fusion.

Smart Stimulation Systems: Integration of patient-specific electrical stimulation protocols that utilize harvested energy to reduce pain and accelerate healing processes during recovery.

Computational Design Platform: Advanced modeling tools that enable precise customization of meta-tribomaterial properties for individual patient biomechanics and therapeutic needs.