Skaggs Lab
The Skaggs Lab at Cedars-Sinai Spine is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of spinal conditions through clinically driven research. Our work focuses on evaluating surgical techniques, emerging technologies and patient outcomes to better inform decision-making in spine surgery. By integrating large-scale data with real-world clinical questions, we aim to identify patterns, improve safety and refine approaches to care. The lab brings together surgeons, researchers and trainees to collaboratively study spinal deformity, trauma and complex conditions across all ages, with the goal of contributing meaningful evidence to the field and improving patient outcomes.
Personal Statement
I have dedicated my career to caring for patients with scoliosis, spondylolysis and complex spinal deformities. What drives me is the opportunity to improve a child’s life through better surgery and better science. Every operation is a privilege, and every study moves us closer to safer, more effective care. As a former NCAA All-American athlete, I take pride in helping young athletes return to their full potential.
David L. Skaggs, MD, MMM
Breakthrough Research
Our team leads studies advancing robotic-assisted surgery, enabling technology such as synthetic CT and surgeon preservation, while improving outcomes for patients with scoliosis, kyphosis and complex spinal conditions.
Patents
Skaggs holds patents in fusionless scoliosis correction and growth-preserving distraction technologies, reflecting a sustained commitment to advancing implant innovation and improving patient outcomes.
Funded Research
The Skaggs Lab has received funding from research groups such as the Scoliosis Research Society and the Pediatric Spine Study Group to advance research in pediatric spinal deformity and surgical outcomes.
Publications
Skaggs has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed papers, co-edits Orthobullets and has edited multiple editions of leading pediatric orthopedic textbooks. Learn more about recent publications from the Skaggs Lab.
Laboratory Team
Meet our multidisciplinary team of spine researchers and clinicians dedicated to advancing pediatric orthopedic care.
Job Opportunities
We offer a one-year research program for U.S. MS3 students taking a gap year. Student researchers produce publications and gain hands-on clinical experience alongside nationally recognized spine surgeons.
For more information, please email [email protected].
Collaborations
The Skaggs Lab fosters collaboration across multiple specialties within Cedars-Sinai and institutions around the world.