Reeves, Rustin E.2019-08-222019-08-222009-12-012010-03-11https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12503/29549Purpose: To evaluate bone graft substitutes used in spine fusion surgery and determine the feasibility of studying the use of adult stem cells. Hypothesis: Using a well designed, randomized clinical trial to compare bone graft substitutes used in spine fusion surgery will help determine the best alternative to autologous bone graft. Design: Retrospective data on two bone graft substitutes will be evaluated. A protocol for studying stem cells in spine fusion will be drafted and the feasibility of implementing the trial will be analyzed. Results: It is difficult to design a randomized clinical trial to investigate a new surgical technique. The lack of standardization among spine surgeons makes it difficult to control for confounding variables.application/pdfenInternship Practicum Report