Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of a novel Oxy133-infused biomimetic bone graft using a rat model of posterolateral spinal fusion.

Objective: To (1) create a novel tissue-engineered bone graft comprising the osteoinductive oxysterol Oxy133 and (2) compare the osteogenic capability of this novel bone graft with bone graft substitutes previously examined.

Methods: Oxy133 was homogeneously incorporated into a biomimetic bone graft substitute (BioMim) comprising extracellular matrix and calcium phosphates. Two iterations of the graft were created: one corresponding to an implant-dose of 2.

Augmented Reality Versus Freehand Spinopelvic Fixation in Spinal Deformity: A Case-Control Study.

Purpose: This study sought to compare screw placement accuracy and outcomes between freehand (FH) and AR-guided pelvic fixation. While pelvic fixation is a critical technique in spinal deformity surgery, S2-alar iliac (S2AI) screw placement poses challenges.

Methods: We conducted a case-control study of 50 consecutive patients who underwent spinopelvic fixation at a single institution.

Return to play following craniotomy for non-traumatic brain lesions.

Objective: Return to play (RTP) decisions after cranial surgery are important to patients. Most published data relate to RTP following sports-related brain injury. This study investigated factors that influence neurosurgical RTP decision-making following craniotomy for non-traumatic brain lesions.

Synthesis and evaluation of a novel vancomycin-infused, biomimetic bone graft using a rat model of spinal implant-associated infection.

Background: Postoperative infection is a complication of spinal fusion surgery resulting in increased patient morbidity. Strategies including intraoperative application of powdered vancomycin have been proposed to reduce the incidence of infection; however, such antimicrobial effects are short-lived.

Methods: Instrumentation of the L4-L5 vertebrae was performed mimicking pedicle screw and rod fixation in 30 rats.

Rapid Operationalization of COVID-19 Immunization Clinics With Medical and Physician Assistant Students Serving as Vaccinators.

Introduction: In anticipation of institutional and community-wide COVID-19 immunization clinics, an educational program for the administration of COVID-19 vaccines was developed, collaborating with the Virginia Department of Health to train doctor of medicine and physician assistant students to serve as vaccinators. Faculty and students also worked with state legislatures to propose and enact a bill that would enable such students to vaccinate patients.

Methods: Between January 2021 and August 2022, 263 student volunteers completed 3,685 person-hours, administering 48,279 doses.