Development of novel tests to quantify objective spine function

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BACKGROUND: If functional tests like electrocardiography were unavailable, the impact on heart patients would be disastrous. Unfortunately, this situation exists in the spine - few objective tests are available to quantify mechanical spine function. As such, my research program will address, then solve, significant engineering challenges to create a suite of novel measures of objective spine function.***MY RESEARCH PROGRAM: Objective 1: My prior DG work has shown spine vibration creates a “fingerprint” that reveals tissue status. Unfortunately, this invasive approach limits clinical application. This objective will validate ultra-fast ultrasound as a non-invasive way to quantify 3D vertebral displacements during vibration. A range of vibrations (chirp) will be applied non-invasively in anesthetized pigs. The vertebral displacement response will be measured simultaneously by ultra-fast ultrasound (test signal) and a triaxial accelerometer implanted surgically (criterion signal). The test signal will then be validated against the criterion signal. Objective 2: In prior DG work, we have shown that indentation stiffness is a clinically significant measure of spine function. By understanding how individual spinal tissues contribute indentation stiffness, clinicians can specifically target underlying causes of back pain. This objective will identify how spinal tissues contribute to bulk force-displacement (FD) data obtained via rolling indentation by adapting this technique for concurrent MRI and fluoroscopic imaging. The resulting FD data will be input into a computer model to identify how/when specific tissues contribute to a FD curve. Objective 3: We have recently used cineMRI to visualize intra-articular events associated with joint sounds, yet more sophisticated imaging is needed to ascertain their relation to joint health status. This objective will identify intra-articular parameters (biomarkers) of joint sounds that define functional versus dysfunctional joints. To do this, we will combine new MRI techniques to visualize joint sounds in larger volumes with ultra-fast ultrasound capable of imaging rates of over 1,000 Hz. ***LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES: The long-term objective of my research program is to develop novel ways to measure objective spine function toward reducing morbidity, disability and cost burdens for Canadians. Knowledge generated here will provide an engineering foundation from which to address the clinical significance of these measures and their underlying mechanisms.***ENVIRONMENT, TRAINING AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER: This research program is founded on established multidisciplinary collaborations having a productive history of publication, training, and funding. These elements continue to produce sought-after HQPs as evidenced by mentoring recognition, student awards won and successful career placements in science, engineering and health care.