UBC Orthopaedics Researchers Secure $2.3 Million Grant for Groundbreaking Spinal Cord Injury Study

The UBC Department of Orthopaedics proudly announces that two of our esteemed faculty members, Dr. Babak Shadgan and Dr. Brian Kwon, have been awarded a prestigious $2.3 million research grant from the US Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP). This significant investment underlines their groundbreaking work and our Department’s commitment to advancing medical science.

This substantial funding will support their innovative 3-year research project titled “Advanced Physiologic Monitoring at the Site of Spinal Cord Injury” at the International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD).

About the Project: The research project focuses on advancing a revolutionary method developed by our esteemed professors to monitor spinal cord tissue oxygenation in acute spinal cord injuries. By processing spinal cord near-infrared spectroscopy signals, the team aims to discover real-time measures to monitor spinal cord tissue perfusion and hemodynamics autoregulation. The success of this project holds the potential to transform spinal cord hemodynamics management, minimizing ischemic damage, and enhancing clinical outcomes for patients facing acute spinal cord injuries.

This achievement not only highlights the expertise of Dr. Shadgan and Dr. Kwon but also underscores the collaborative spirit within our Department and the broader medical community. The grant signifies a significant stride towards improving the lives of individuals affected by spinal cord injuries, showcasing the positive impact that collaborative research can have on healthcare practices worldwide.

With the project set to commence on October 1st, 2023, we eagerly anticipate the groundbreaking discoveries and advancements that will emerge from this research. This success reinforces UBC Orthopaedics’ commitment to pioneering research, innovation, and excellence in patient care.