Vivien Chan

Dr. Chan’s research program is dedicated to improving outcomes for children with spinal pathologies that significantly affect physical function, emotional health, and long-term quality of life. The overarching aim of her work is to establish new standards of pediatric spine care that enhance surgical safety, optimize recovery, and inform evidence-based management pathways. This is pursued through prospective clinical studies, evaluation of innovative surgical techniques and technologies, and collaboration with national and international patient registries.

A central focus of Dr. Chan’s research is the systematic evaluation of children’s perspectives and experiences with spinal disorders. By incorporating measures of function, emotional health, and quality of life, her work moves beyond traditional surgical and radiographic outcomes to emphasize patient-centered metrics that more accurately reflect the true impact of treatment. Her program also investigates novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies designed to improve outcomes. Current areas of study include MRI-based synthetic CT imaging, robotic-assisted and minimally invasive spine surgery, growth-preserving surgical techniques, radiation-free scoliosis curve monitoring, and the application of bone stimulators. Recognizing that outcomes extend beyond the operating room, Dr. Chan’s research further examines perioperative factors that influence recovery and contribute to complications. By identifying and addressing modifiable risk factors, her program aims to improve pediatric spine care through the development of standardized, evidence-based pathways tailored to the unique needs of pediatric patients.