Arthroplasty & Orthopaedics Interdisciplinary Group for Evidence & Outcomes
The ALIGN (Arthroplasty & Orthopaedics Interdisciplinary Group for Evidence & Outcomes) network, brings together clinicians and methodologists in orthopaedic surgery to create high-quality, inclusive, and scalable research
Methodological expertise in orthopaedics is scattered across institutions, limiting its impact on research and translation. Our network will ALIGN experts in applied health services research, social science, clinical practice, and research methods to overcome these challenges to address clinical priorities and influence policy and practice changes.
A priority of ALIGN is developing inclusive research methods that are useful in practice. ALIGN is committed to advancing inclusive, practice-informed research that addresses health inequalities. Our work focuses on understanding and improving outcomes for underrepresented groups in orthopaedic care, drawing on expertise in evidence synthesis, rehabilitation, and stakeholder engagement. By developing and promoting equitable research approaches, ALIGN aims to inform clinical practice and shape future research priorities. Our work will support future funding applications to drive methodological innovation and address health inequalities.
Areas of focus
Network and stakeholder engagement
Network and stakeholder engagement
ALIGN will establish a steering group of lay, clinical, and cross-college representatives that meets six times during the 12‑month period. This group will ensure our research and priorities achieve maximum impact in the orthopaedic community. Activities will include:
- Kick-off workshop: Building on the James Lind Alliance PSP approach we will facilitate sessions where lay representatives share personal experiences to set the research agenda.
- Clinical roundtables: Clinicians from the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital will prioritise clinical research ideas and innovation and then support the ongoing co-production of funding applications aligned with clinical requirements.
- Showcases: to provide regular updates into ongoing work and provide opportunities to integrate stakeholders into the network.
Evidence synthesis
Evidence synthesis
ALIGN will perform a systematic review to assess health outcomes following joint arthroplasty in underrepresented populations. The priorities established through our evidence synthesis will provide a tangible output to profile ALIGN nationally.
Sustained regional expertise
Sustained regional expertise
By integrating expertise, producing impactful preliminary work, and strengthening stakeholder ties, ALIGN will create a sustained orthopaedic research network in the region. This strategic approach ensures a responsive, sustainable research agenda that meets both patient and clinical needs.
Members of the network
Dr Michael Mansfield, Assistant Professor Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at the University of Birmingham.
Dr Arabella Scantlebury, Associate Professor, Lead evidence based surgery research group, Centre for Evidence and Implementation Science at the University of Birmingham.
Professor Amy Grove, Professor of implementation science. Director, Centre for Evidence and Implementation Science. 125th Anniversary Chair at the University of Birmingham.
Gareth Stephens, Head of Research Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Professor Adrian Gardner, Director of Research and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Professor of Clinical Practice in Trauma and Orthopaedics Aston University.