Areas of Translational Focus

Augmented Reality Guided Surgery
The application of augmented, virtual, and mixed reality (AR/VR/MR) technologies is revolutionizing experiential education by enhancing both animate (human or biological) and inanimate (mechanical or simulated) models. These immersive tools provide dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. In educational settings, they support both direct interaction and remote telementoring, allowing learners to engage with complex systems in real time, regardless of location. This approach not only improves skill acquisition and retention but also fosters collaboration between instructors and students across diverse environments. By integrating bioaugmentation with AR/VR/MR, educational platforms can deliver more personalized, adaptive, and effective training experiences
Longitudinal Training & Telementoring Platforms
Space Surgery Platforms
Surgical & Other Interventional
Team Dynamics
Translational research in team dynamics plays a critical role in advancing the effectiveness of minimally invasive interventions. By studying how interdisciplinary teams communicate, coordinate, and make decisions in high-stakes environments, researchers can identify key factors that influence procedural success. These insights are then applied to develop training programs, workflow optimizations, and technologies that enhance collaboration in the operating room. The goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical models of teamwork and their practical application in real-world surgical settings. Ultimately, this research supports safer, more efficient, and patient-centered care in minimally invasive procedures
Image Guided Orthopaedic Trauma Technologies
Image Guided Percutaneous Surgery
Orthoscopic Technologies
Spine Surgery and Education Technologies
Surgical Devices & Software Conceptualization & Development
The conceptualization and development of innovative surgical equipment, platforms, and medical software are driving the next generation of healthcare solutions. This process involves identifying unmet clinical needs and translating them into practical, user-centered technologies that enhance surgical precision, safety, and efficiency. By integrating cutting-edge engineering, biomedical research, and user feedback, these innovations support both traditional and minimally invasive procedures. Advanced software platforms also play a crucial role, enabling real-time data analysis, surgical planning, and decision support. Together, these efforts are transforming the surgical landscape and improving patient outcomes across a wide range of medical specialties.
Ablation Devices
Advanced Spine Surgery Devices
Arthroplasty Fixation & Bearing Surfaces Devices
Chest Wall Reconstruction Devices
Enteral Nutrition Devices
In-situ Bioprinting
Organ Preservation & Perfusion Platforms
Negative Pressure Ventilation Devices
Sternal Closure Devices
Artificial Intelligence Driven Evaluation of Surgical Devices in Real-Time
The integration of big data analytics with generative and advanced reasoning artificial intelligence (AI) enables real-time monitoring and evaluation of surgical equipment performance. By continuously capturing and analyzing vast streams of operational data, this technology ensures that surgical tools function optimally during procedures. These AI models can identify patterns, predict potential malfunctions, and suggest improvements, enhancing both safety and efficiency in the operating room. This capability supports proactive maintenance and informed decision-making, reducing downtime and improving patient outcomes. Ultimately, it represents a transformative step toward smarter, data-driven surgical environments.
Hemodynamics & Monitoring
Spring Image Guided Surgery
Medical Robotics
Training and research in medical robotics are essential for advancing surgical and interventional procedures across a wide range of specialties. These efforts focus on developing the next generation of robotic systems while equipping clinicians and engineers with the skills to operate, refine, and innovate these technologies. Research and development (R&D) initiatives explore new robotic capabilities, such as enhanced dexterity, automation, and real-time feedback systems, to improve procedural outcomes. Training programs often combine simulation, hands-on practice, and remote telementoring to ensure safe and effective use in clinical settings. Together, training and R&D form the foundation for continuous innovation and adoption of medical robotics in modern healthcare.
Robotic Telesurgery, Machine Intelligence, & Autonomous Systems
Brain – Computer Interfaces
Research and development (R&D) in Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) is at the forefront of merging neuroscience with advanced computing technologies. This field focuses on creating direct communication pathways between the brain and external devices, enabling new possibilities for restoring motor function, enhancing cognitive abilities, and controlling machines through thought alone. R&D efforts explore areas such as neural signal decoding, non-invasive and invasive interface technologies, and real-time data processing. These innovations have profound implications for healthcare, particularly in neurorehabilitation, as well as for human-computer interaction in broader contexts. As the technology matures, BCIs are poised to revolutionize how humans interact with the digital world and their own bodies.