Spine Comprehensive Outcomes, Research, and Education
Mission
Optimizing surgical outcomes for patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery.
Research Interests
Multidisciplinary Treatment of Osteoporosis at the Bone Health Center
Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by declining bone mineral density which increases the risk of fracture, surgical complications, and poor recovery. Globally, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 are affected by osteoporosis, with over 200 million people suffering from the condition worldwide. As our population ages, the incidence of those suffering from concurrent osteoporosis and spinal conditions is increasing. Low bone density in the setting of spinal fusion has been associated with suboptimal postoperative outcomes, which may necessitate revision surgery. To reduce the risk of bone health-related surgical complications, we are working to develop an optimized multidisciplinary approach with Endocrinology and Pharmacy to facilitate targeted osteoporosis evaluation and medical therapies.
Research Team
Julie L. Chan, MD, PhD, PI
Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida. As a complex spine neurosurgeon, she treats a range of spinal pathologies including degenerative, neoplastic, and traumatic conditions. Her techniques focus on minimally invasive approaches as well as motion preservation. She currently leads research within the Comprehensive Spine Center and Bone Health Center for Osteoporosis at the University of Florida, with an interest in spine surgery outcomes and clinical trials. She is passionate about education and advancement in improving patient outcomes following surgery.
Sabaina Ahmed, B.S Biochemistry, Clinical Research Coordinator II
Lead Spine Research Coordinator at the University of Florida Department of Neurosurgery. Her current research focuses span from Conduit Interbody Fusion Implantable Devices for spinal fusion patients to Osteopenia workflow in conjunction with the Bone Health Center as well as new upcoming projects underway at the Comprehensive Spine Center
Shawna Amini, MPH, Clinical Research Coordinator III
Assists the Comprehensive Spine Center with IRB, RedCAP, and the overall administrative flow of the research center.
M.O.R.E Spine Research Program
Dr. Chan’s M.O.R.E Spine Program is open to students interested in participating in her research. Click here to learn more.