Using robots to improve treatment for vertebral fractures
Official title: A Multi-robot System for Semi-automated Image-guided Vertebral Augmentation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11086579 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on making spine surgery safer and more effective for people with painful vertebral fractures by using new robotic technology to help doctors perform the procedure with less radiation and better planning.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $459,727 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB036341-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086579 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with vertebral compression fractures, especially those experiencing acute pain due to conditions like osteoporosis or cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable vertebral conditions or those who do not require vertebral augmentation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing vertebral augmentation (VA) procedures for patients with vertebral compression fractures, particularly those experiencing acute pain. By developing a multi-robot system, the project aims to reduce radiation exposure, improve safety, and increase the effectiveness of VA techniques. The approach involves creating novel robotic platforms and advanced algorithms that integrate seamlessly into existing workflows, allowing for better surgical planning and execution. Patients can expect a more efficient and safer treatment experience through these innovations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic systems for surgical procedures, indicating potential success for this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Unberath, Mathias — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Unberath, Mathias
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.