The Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute is dedicated to caring for and improving the lives of children and adults with OI.
To address osteogenesis imperfecta's (OI) complex implications, the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute comprises an interdisciplinary team of medical professionals. This comprehensive team ensures a thorough evaluation of patients' individual needs.
Patients can choose to receive consultation at the OI clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute on a one-time or as-needed basis. Or, patients can receive continuous follow-up care.
The Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute is renowned both within and outside of the United States for providing a unique care experience for individuals with OI.
The Kennedy Krieger Institute OI Clinic interacts with the OI Foundation and actively works with other OI centers and physicians around the country. The goals of the OI Clinic are to attain the best care for each individual with OI and to investigate solutions to improve the quality of life for all people with OI.
About Our Program:
Initial evaluations involve the following experts:
- An endocrinologist assesses patients' medical status and makes treatment and medication recommendations
- A radiologist to measure bone density
- A physical therapist to offer therapeutic interventions and assists with mobility issues and activities of daily living
- A physiatrist assesses the need for improving function and offers recommendations for bracing, therapies and exercises
Treatment services offered at the clinic include the following:
- Biochemical testing
- Genetic analysis and counseling
- Growth parameters
- Referrals for bone densitometry, a noninvasive technique that measures bone density
- State-of-the-art treatment aimed at increasing bone density and decreasing fractures
- X-rays, as required for diagnosis and treatment
Osteogenesis Imperfecta patients can also take advantage of the following complementary treatment services offered at Kennedy Krieger:
- Audiology: Evaluates patients for hearing loss (common in individuals with OI)
- Nutrition: Makes dietary recommendations to maximize bone strength
- Orthotics: Fits patients with braces
- Social Work: Provides services for patients and families who need support coping with OI
- Out-of-State Consultation Service: Works with patients' local physicians to implement appropriate treatment protocols
- An orthopedic surgeon determines surgical needs and, if necessary, performs corrective surgery
