The Research Institute currently manages 14 FDA-regulated clinical trials, two national research grants and over 50 scientific/outcomes studies, and annually monitors approximately 6,000 study patients. The results of these research studies are shared with other healthcare professionals through peer-reviewed medical journals, medical textbooks and presentations at medical conferences. Each year, OrthoCarolina physicians publish approximately 20 articles in peer-reviewed medical journals and present at more than 100 national and international medical conferences or seminars. For a list of recent publications click here.

Why is orthopedic research important?

Orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries and disorders rank number one among the reasons for visits to doctors, outpatient hospitals and emergency departments, and are the leading cause of disability. Hundreds of millions of people are affected each year and as our population ages, these numbers will continue to increase. For example:

• One in four Americans suffers from an orthopedic or musculoskeletal condition
• Each year, patients make 137 million medical visits due to orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions
• Arthritis is expected to debilitate an additional 40% of the American population by 2020
• In 50 years, hospitalizations for potentially deadly hip fractures will double to 650,000 annually
• Nearly half of all women over age 50 will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture
• A high percentage of potentially disabling disorders afflict those age 18 and under

Each year, countless patients are referred to medical clinics such as OrthoCarolina, P.A., for state-of-the-art care and for participation in clinical trials. FDA clinical trials are designed to develop new devices, evaluate new medications, improve materials and systems, and improve surgical procedures. For patients, participation in an FDA clinical trial is completely voluntary; however, a patient who participates may have access to innovative treatments and/or medications not available to the general public. Clinical trials are conducted in phases.

OCRI is involved in the following:

• Phase II studies, to determine if a study drug, device or treatment is safe and effective (patient population of 100-300).
• Phase III studies, to confirm that the drug, device or treatment can be used safely (patient population of 1,000-3,000).
• Phase IV studies, post marketing studies for additional information regarding risks, benefits and optimal use.

For a list of FDA clinical trials open to enrollment at OCRI click here:

At the OrthoCarolina Research Institute, we believe that orthopedic surgery and medical care will change drastically over the next 25 years. We envision new diagnostic procedures, innovative therapies, better surgical and non-surgical treatments, and preventive strategies for patients at high risk. OCRI is dedicated to the advancement of orthopedic and musculoskeletal medical care to improve the quality of life of millions of people. 

Governing OrthoCarolina Research Institute

The OrthoCarolina Research Institute is governed by a board of trustees. OCRI, a 501(c)(3) organization, is funded solely by contributions and grants from individuals and corporations. For additional information or to make a contribution, please call 704.339.1026 or write to:

     William L. Griffin, MD
     Chairman, Research Advisory Committee
     OrthoCarolina Research Institute
     1915 Randolph Road
     Charlotte, North Carolina 28207

How you can help make a difference:

Because OCRI is a non-profit entity, it depends on support from individuals to maintain its high level of research and service to the community. Gifts can be anonymous, recognized, or in memory or honor of someone. Your gifts reach far beyond OCRI, as the Institute's findings influence the lives of all patients touched by orthopedic medicine. There are a number of ways individuals can contribute to OCRI: through tax-deductible contributions, bequests in a will, trusts, and foundation and corporate grants.

Foundation and Corporate Grants

Foundations and corporations can award grants to OCRI for orthopedic research. If you sit on the board for a foundation or a corporation, you can help OCRI by sharing your experience and knowledge about the Institute, and by recommending that a medical research grant go to OCRI. Materials are available upon request for you to distribute to other board members.

For more information about clinical research, please contact Anne Schwoebel at anne.schwoebel@orthocarolina.com or 704.323.2260.