Research is an important part of medicine, allowing us to objectively determine the effectiveness of the treatments we recommend to our patients. As a result, the VOA Research Foundation was formed in 2004 as a nonprofit organization.

The mission and goal of the VOA Research Foundation is to evaluate and educate physicians and patients about advanced treatment options that give patients the ability to move more easily and help eliminate the pain of arthritis involving our joints.

The VOA Research Foundation evaluates emerging techniques and technology regarding joint replacement surgery. With our proximity to Valley Orthopedic Associates, we are able to study the outcomes of total hip and knee replacement with regard to long-term pain relief and function. Ongoing clinical studies include evaluation of alternative bearing surfaces such as metal-on-metal and large head size total hips, as well as studies regarding computer-assisted surgery, comparing this technique to the alignment and implant placement obtained with traditional knee-replacement surgery, and a comparison of anterior versus posterior approaches to total hip replacement.

As part of our educational mission, we provide an annual scholarship to Renton High School students interested in pursuing studies related to health care. The Foundation also sponsors educational forums to further the knowledge base of both orthopedic and primary care practitioners about advances in orthopedic care.

The VOA Research Foundation is located at Valley Orthopedic Associates on the Valley Medical Center campus in Renton, Washington.

Additional Info:
VOA Research Foundation Hip Replacement Studies
VOA Research Foundation Knee Replacement Studies
Discharge Physical Therapy Protocol for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Survival Analysis of a Second Generation Contemporary Modular Total Knee Replacement

Contacting the Foundation:
For more information about the VOA Research Foundation or to make a contribution, call 425-656-5060 ext. 3063.



William Barrett, MD
VOA Research Foundation President



















Shelly Turner, Research Coordinator
VOA Research Foundation Secretary/Treasurer