Research within the Center for Peripheral Nerve Surgery is currently investigating spinal cord bypass surgery in a variety of preclinical animal models.  In collaboration with John Martin, Ph.D. from the Department of Neurosciences here at Columbia University, we are assessing the potential for peripheral nerve transfers to the spinal cord to recover function below the level of spinal cord injury.  Thus far we have demonstrated successful targeted growth of peripheral nerve axons into the anterior horn following transfers in a rodent model.  Using this technique we are now exploring recovery of complex motor functions in a feline model following spinal cord injury.  Once these studies are completed we will demonstrate feasibility of the technique in primates, and ultimately humans with spinal cord injury.