Globalink Research Award Application – Internship in Switzerland (May 1 2025 start) – McKinley Van Klei

Standard medical imaging techniques used to diagnose and inform treatment of spinal conditions include X-Ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These images neglect to capture the in vivo dynamic behavior of the spine during activities of daily living, since patients remain as still as possible to capture clear image. In 2023, 20% of the adult population was reported to be diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, a condition that can cause debilitating low back and leg pain. The diagnostic process and treatment of lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis (LDS) is controversial and lacking in evidence, however common treatment is spinal decompression or fusion surgery. The purpose of this study is to provide clinically relevant insights into the biomechanical markers of LDS using DBRI, with the goal of improving diagnostics and informing patient-specific treatment plans. Patients diagnosed with LDS will be examined pre- and 6-months-post- op using DBRI, EMG, force measurements, CT, and MRI (target n = 100). DBRI will be conducted while patients perform a dynamic flexion extension motion using the established facilities in the Digital Imaging Centre at sitem-insel. This study will contribute to the “translational musculoskeletal biodynamics” initiative by discovering biomechanical markers and biomechanical profiles unique to LDS using DBRI.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heidi-Lynn Ploeg

Student:

Partner:

Eidgenössische Materialprüfungs- und Forschungsanstalt

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Artificial Intelligence; Biotechnology; Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Queen's University

Program: