Rujvee Patel

Rujvee Patel

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Washington University in Saint Louis School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Pennicooke Lab

At Pennicooke Lab, our research focuses on 3D motion capture technology for cervical myelopathy patients, opioid use in spine surgery patients, degenerative disc disease imaging analysis, self-directed app based physical therapy, and clinical decision-making support tools in spine surgery. We aim to equitably include patients from all socioeconomic strata in all our clinical and interventional research efforts and are currently supported by funding from 2 grants to support these efforts.
Spine surgery is a complex and advanced procedure. Several studies have highlighted the disparities in access to and outcomes post spine surgery based on various sociodemographic factors. As the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Department of Neurosurgery, CRE2 affiliation will be instrumental in advancing DEI research as well as benefit practice by implementing inclusive strategies based on research findings in long term.