The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery has dedicated significant resources to the pursuit of clinical, translational, and basic science research.
Our state-of-the-art Thompson Lab, housed on the fourth floor of Missouri Orthopaedic Institute (MOI), includes ~12,000 square feet solely dedicated to research for a team of more than 50 researchers representing 13 different specialties.
The lab houses Basic Science and Translational Research, Skeletal Morphology Research, Bioengineering Research, and Clinical Research teams and facilities. MOI houses over 40 clinical faculty specializing in sports medicine (primary care and surgical), joint replacement, pediatrics, hip and knee, foot and ankle, shoulder, hand, spine, trauma, limb preservation, regenerative medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging.
More than 200 other health care professionals and staff provide care and services including nursing, imaging, prosthetics, pharmacy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, and mental health. Our internationally recognized faculty and staff — combined with our state-of-the-art Thompson Lab and variety and volume of patients — create an optimal environment for bedside-to-bench-to-bedside research. See below for a full list of active projects and presentations.
Featured Clinical Researcher of the Quarter: Elie Ghanem, MD
Dr. Elie Ghanem is an Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Section Head of Total Joint Arthroplasty at the University of Missouri in Columbia. He is a nationally recognized expert in adult hip and knee reconstruction, with particular expertise in complex revision surgeries and periprosthetic joint infections. Dr. Ghanem plays a leading role in the institution’s surgical programs and research initiatives, mentoring residents and fellows while advancing clinical excellence in total joint arthroplasty.
Among his many contributions, Dr. Ghanem supports ongoing departmental research, including a prospective study evaluating the use of computer-assisted, surgeon-controlled robotic technology in total knee arthroplasty. This study examines outcomes using the Depuy Velys robotic platform compared to conventional manual techniques, focusing on improvements in component alignment and soft tissue balance.
Dr. Ghanem’s broader research focuses on infection prevention, outcomes in revision joint surgery, and the development of innovative diagnostic protocols for prosthetic joint infections. He has published extensively in high-impact orthopedic journals and is a frequent presenter at national and international conferences. His work has contributed to redefining standards in infection diagnostics and improving outcomes for high-risk patients. As a thought leader in the field, Dr. Ghanem collaborates with research consortia and serves on editorial and peer-review boards dedicated to advancing evidence-based orthopedic care.
