In 2007, The UCLA/Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery opened the Cesar Pelli-designed, state-of-the-art 35,000 square foot Orthopaedic Hospital Research Center in the heart of the Court of the Sciences on the UCLA Westwood campus.
The addition of the OHRC catapulted the UCLA/Orthopaedic Hospital Department of Orthopaedic research space to more than 48,000 square feet, tops in the United States among other departments of orthopaedic surgery. In addition to amplifying traditional research strengths in biomechanics, materials science, and cartilage biology, new areas of research were activated 1) stem cell and developmental biology, 2) molecular endocrinology and genetics, 3) tissue engineering and nanotechnology science and 4) patient-oriented clinical research designed to move discoveries made at the bench in the laboratory quickly but safely into the realm of clinical medicine.
Scientists and clinicians work together in close proximity, stimulating the cross-fertilization of theories, knowledge, and experience that generates valuable new ideas and therapies, moving breakthroughs from bench to bedside quickly and safely. The alliance between UCLA and OIC creates a platform for unparalleled contributions to patient care and scientific discovery in orthopaedic surgery and musculoskeletal medicine.
For more than a century, the Orthopaedic Institute for Children has provided unparalleled care for patients with musculoskeletal disorders regardless of their family’s ability to pay. We are doctors, surgeons, nurses, researchers, administrators and volunteers committed to helping children lead healthy, active lives.
In 1998, Orthopaedic Institute for Children (OIC) and UCLA, forged a far-reaching alliance to broaden the scope of both organizations – bringing new and expanded programs for patient care, research and education in musculoskeletal disorders to Los Angeles and beyond. While Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center and OIC may be the most visible component of the alliance with UCLA, this partnership has provided enhanced opportunities for research and education.
