Master's theses at UKBB

Topic
Placental histology and bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Background
Placental dysfunction seems to contribute to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in extremely preterm infants.

Aim
To explore the association between placental histopathology and the development of BPD

Methods
Data collection from medical charts & reports on placental histopathology in preterm infants with and without BPD in a cohort of infants < 28 w gestational age (approximately 150 infants from 5 years).

Literature
Parsons A et al. Understanding the role of placental pathophysiology in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2022. PMID: 36219136.

Carer
PD Dr Roland Neumann

If you are interested, please contact us by e-mail: 

Topic
Impact of Spinal and Hip Surgery on Health-Related Quality of Life and Functional Outcomes in Non-Ambulatory Children

Are you interested in pediatric orthopedics, children with neurological conditions, and patient-centred research? We are seeking a motivated master's student to support a study investigating the long-term outcomes of hip and spine surgeries in children with cerebral palsy (GMFCS III-V) and other neurological or neuromuscular disorders. The project focuses on evaluating quality of life using validated patient-reported outcome measures (CPCHILD) alongside clinician-reported assessments of spinal alignment and range of motion (SAROMM).

As part of the team, you will be in direct contact with patients and their families-supporting recruitment, assisting in the completion of questionnaires, and potentially participating in clinician-reported assessments. This hands-on role offers valuable clinical exposure and the chance to contribute to meaningful research aimed at improving care and outcomes for children with complex needs.

Master's student supervision
Dr Michèle WidmerSenior Consultant Paediatric Orthopaedics/Neuroorthopaedics

Supervision
Prof. Dr med. Dr sci. Heide Elke Viehweger, Deputy Head of Paediatric Orthopaedics, Head of Neuroorthopaedics and Centre for Movement Analysis

Topic
Risk Factors for Hip Problems After Spinal Surgery in Children with Neurological Conditions – A Retrospective Study

Project Overview
This retrospective study aims to investigate the incidence of hip problems and sitting difficulties following spinal surgery in children with neuromuscular scoliosis. We will analyze patient records and radiological data (X-rays) to identify risk factors contributing to post-surgical hip complications.

Who We’re Looking For

• Interest in pediatric orthopedics and/or radiology
• Thorough and independent working style
• Ideally some experience with medical records or image-based data analysis (training can be provided)

What We Offer

• Close supervision by the neuroorthopedic and spine team
• Insight into clinical practice and the opportunity to observe daily work in pediatric orthopedic care
• Flexible start date – project can begin as soon as possible
• A meaningful project in a collaborative and specialized clinical environment

Location
Orthopedic Department
University Children’s Hospital Basel (UKBB), Switzerland

Interested?
Please contact:
Dr med. Michèle Widmer
Oberärztin Kinderorthopädie / Neuroorthopädie