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Keeping patient care at the forefront
Dr. Abdel's laboratory studies clinically relevant pathologies while considering the functional impact on people with joint conditions.
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Investigating genetic clues
Our research focuses on investigating the genetic expression profiles of people predisposed to joint contractures (arthrofibrosis).
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Advancing discovery
The ultimate goal of our research is to develop safe pharmacologic interventions that can prevent and treat pathologic joint contractures, osteolysis and periprosthetic infections.
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Developing future applications
Through our research, diagnostic tools will become available to accurately and efficiently determine who is at risk of major orthopedic complications.
Overview
The Orthopedic Genetic Host Variation Laboratory, based at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is pursuing mechanistic studies on arthrofibrosis through acquisition of patient-derived samples, with support from the combined expertise of our multidisciplinary team.
Principal investigator Matthew P. Abdel, M.D., leads the lab in our long-term goal to innovate the practice of orthopedics by developing theragnostic approaches that permit genetic diagnosis and implementation of pharmacotherapies to prevent the onset of arthrofibrosis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Total knee arthroplasty, also called knee replacement surgery, involves replacement of damaged tissue with orthopedic implant devices. People who undergo knee replacement expect not only pain relief but also improved function, which is intimately associated with a full arc of motion of the knee
However, some people develop arthrofibrosis (joint stiffening) after total knee replacement. Arthrofibrosis is a debilitating complication with limited treatment options. Despite significant advancements in surgical techniques and implant devices, there are no known preventive treatments to avoid this joint stiffness, and additional surgery is often required.
Our lab is conducting research projects to learn more about arthrofibrosis and improve treatment options, including:
- Investigating the characteristics of people with arthrofibrosis.
- Learning more about genetic predisposition to arthrofibrosis.
- Studying the molecular characterization of arthrofibrotic pathways.
- Developing applications for artificial intelligence.
About Dr. Abdel
Dr. Abdel is an orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He is the Andrew A. and Mary S. Sugg Professor of Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Abdel, who has authored nearly 350 peer-reviewed research publications, is also chair of the Division of Orthopedic Surgery Research. Dr. Abdel is committed to advancing diagnostic tools to accurately and efficiently determine who is at risk of developing arthrofibrosis, osteolysis, periprosthetic infections and other major orthopedic conditions.