Robert Douglas Fitch | Scholars@Duke

Robert Douglas Fitch
Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery

My research interest center around limb lengthening and external fixation. Much is known about the biology of distraction osteogenesis. However, little is known about the effects on the soft tissues with limb lengthening techniques. In a dog model, we are investigating the effects of limb lengthening on muscle function, analizing amount of muscle lengthened per segment of bone lengthening, contractility, and strength. We also hope to begin studies assessing the effects of non steroidal anti-inflammatories on the quality of bone regenerate formed with distraction osteogenesis.

Office Hours

7:30am-4pm

Current Appointments & Affiliations

Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedics, Orthopaedics 1995
Associate Professor in Pediatrics, Pediatrics, Clinical Science Departments 2007

Contact Information

Box 2911 Med Ctr, Durham, NC 27710
Lenox Baker Chldrn Hosp, Durham, NC 27710
fitch002@mc.duke.edu (919) 684-3104

Background
Education, Training, & Certifications
- M.D., Duke University 1976
Duke Appointment History
- Clinical Associate in the Department of Pediatrics, Pediatrics, Clinical Science Departments 1994 - 2007
- Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery, Orthopaedics, Orthopaedics 1994 - 1995
- Assistant Professor of Surgery, Surgery, School of Medicine 1983 - 1994
- Associate in Orthopaedics in the Department of Surgery, Surgery, School of Medicine 1982 - 1983
Expertise
Global Scholarship
- Expertise
  - United States of America (Country)
- Teaching
  - United States of America (Country)
Research
Selected Grants
- Nitroprusside in Children (NITPIC) awarded by National Institutes of Health 2004 - 2010
Publications & Artistic Works
Selected Publications
- Academic Articles
  - Catanzano, Anthony A., Valentine R. Esposito, Brian L. Dial, Christine J. Wu, Zoe W. Hinton, Thomas J. Risoli, Cynthia L. Green, Robert D. Fitch, and Robert K. Lark. “Staying ahead of the curve: the use of spinopelvic parameters to predict curve progression and bracing success in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.” Spine Deform, July 21, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43390-020-00159-5.
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  - Esposito, Valentine R., Brian L. Dial, Robert D. Fitch, and Robert K. Lark. “Periapical Wires Result in Less Curve Correction Than Pedicle Screw Constructs in Idiopathic Scoliosis.” Asian Spine J 13, no. 6 (December 2019): 1010–16. https://doi.org/10.31616/asj.2019.0001.
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  - Apkon, Susan D., Ben Alman, David J. Birnkrant, Robert Fitch, Robert Lark, William Mackenzie, Norbert Weidner, and Michael Sussman. “Orthopedic and Surgical Management of the Patient With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.” Pediatrics 142, no. Suppl 2 (October 2018): S82–89. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2018-0333J.
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  - Catanzano, Anthony A., and Robert D. Fitch. “The Use of Distraction Osteogenesis and a Taylor Spatial Frame in the Treatment of a Tibial Shaft Nonunion and Deformity in a Pediatric Patient with Osteopetrosis: A Case Report.” Jbjs Case Connect 8, no. 4 (October 2018): e93–94. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.CC.17.00322.
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  - Tang, Xinyan, Liufang Jing, William J. Richardson, Robert E. Isaacs, Robert D. Fitch, Christopher R. Brown, Melissa M. Erickson, Lori A. Setton, and Jun Chen. “Identifying molecular phenotype of nucleus pulposus cells in human intervertebral disc with aging and degeneration.” J Orthop Res 34, no. 8 (August 2016): 1316–26. https://doi.org/10.1002/jor.23244.
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  - Halawi, Mohamad J., Robert K. Lark, and Robert D. Fitch. “Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Current Concepts.” Orthopedics 38, no. 6 (June 2015): e452–56. https://doi.org/10.3928/01477447-20150603-50.
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  - Joyner, L. P. W., A. R. Vap, S. Orr, and R. D. Fitch. “A novel technique for correcting a flexible internal rotation deformity following talectomy.” Techniques in Orthopaedics 30, no. 2 (January 1, 2015): 117–19. https://doi.org/10.1097/BTO.0000000000000065.
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  - Tang, Xinyan, William J. Richardson, Robert D. Fitch, Christopher R. Brown, Robert E. Isaacs, and Jun Chen. “A new non-enzymatic method for isolating human intervertebral disc cells preserves the phenotype of nucleus pulposus cells.” Cytotechnology 66, no. 6 (December 2014): 979–86. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10616-013-9650-7.
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  - Fitch, Robert D. “Ultrasound for screening and management of developmental dysplasia of the hip.” N C Med J 75, no. 2 (March 2014): 142–45. https://doi.org/10.18043/ncm.75.2.142.
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  - Mayer, Stephanie W., Braden K. Mayer, J. Mack Aldridge, James R. Urbaniak, Robert D. Fitch, and Robert K. Lark. “Osteonecrosis of the femoral head in childhood malignancy.” J Child Orthop 7, no. 2 (March 2013): 111–16. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11832-012-0471-6.
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  - Lark, Robert K., John S. Lewis, Tyler Steven Watters, and Robert D. Fitch. “Radiographic outcomes of ring external fixation for malunion and nonunion.” J Surg Orthop Adv 22, no. 4 (2013): 316–20. https://doi.org/10.3113/jsoa.2013.0316.
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  - Jing, Liufang, Stephen So, Shaun W. Lim, William J. Richardson, Robert D. Fitch, Lori A. Setton, and Jun Chen. “Differential expression of galectin-1 and its interactions with cells and laminins in the intervertebral disc.” J Orthop Res 30, no. 12 (December 2012): 1923–31. https://doi.org/10.1002/jor.22158.
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  - Sinclair, S Michael, Mohammed F. Shamji, Jun Chen, Liufang Jing, William J. Richardson, Christopher R. Brown, Robert D. Fitch, and Lori A. Setton. “Attenuation of inflammatory events in human intervertebral disc cells with a tumor necrosis factor antagonist.” Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 36, no. 15 (July 1, 2011): 1190–96. https://doi.org/10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181ebdb43.
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  - Gabr, Mostafa A., Liufang Jing, Antonia R. Helbling, S Michael Sinclair, Kyle D. Allen, Mohammed F. Shamji, William J. Richardson, Robert D. Fitch, Lori A. Setton, and Jun Chen. “Interleukin-17 synergizes with IFNγ or TNFα to promote inflammatory mediator release and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in human intervertebral disc cells.” J Orthop Res 29, no. 1 (January 2011): 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1002/jor.21206.
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  - Wood, Kenneth E., Robert D. Fitch, Douglas C. Burton, and C Jane Keiger. “Anterior scoliosis rod migration to the lower extremity.” The Spine Journal : Official Journal of the North American Spine Society 9, no. 6 (June 2009): e9-12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2008.12.001.
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  - Hollenbeck, Scott T., Shoshana Woo, Siang Ong, Robert D. Fitch, Detlev Erdmann, and L Scott Levin. “The combined use of the Ilizarov method and microsurgical techniques for limb salvage.” Ann Plast Surg 62, no. 5 (May 2009): 486–91. https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0b013e318189a9e5.
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  - Chen, Jun, Liufang Jing, Christopher L. Gilchrist, William J. Richardson, Robert D. Fitch, and Lori A. Setton. “Expression of laminin isoforms, receptors, and binding proteins unique to nucleus pulposus cells of immature intervertebral disc.” Connect Tissue Res 50, no. 5 (2009): 294–306.
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  - Easley, Mark E., Harvey E. Montijo, Joseph B. Wilson, Robert D. Fitch, and James A. Nunley. “Revision tibiotalar arthrodesis.” J Bone Joint Surg Am 90, no. 6 (June 2008): 1212–23. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.G.00506.
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  - Radkowski, Christopher A., Robert D. Fitch, and William T. Hardaker. “Arthroscopic-assisted revision of telescopic rods in osteogenesis imperfecta.” Arthroscopy 21, no. 1 (January 2005): 93–97. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arthro.2004.09.002.
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  - Kenter, K., G. Worley, T. Griffin, and R. D. Fitch. “Pediatric traumatic atlanto-occipital dislocation: five cases and a review.” J Pediatr Orthop 21, no. 5 (September 2001): 585–89.
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  - Worley, G., J. S. Wiener, T. M. George, H. E. Fuchs, J. F. Mackey, R. D. Fitch, and K. T. Oldham. “Acute abdominal symptoms and signs in children and young adults with spina bifida: ten years' experience.” J Pediatr Surg 36, no. 9 (September 2001): 1381–86. https://doi.org/10.1053/jpsu.2001.26375.
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  - Dean, G. S., R. C. Kime, R. D. Fitch, E. Gunneson, and J. R. Urbaniak. “Treatment of osteonecrosis in the hip of pediatric patients by free vascularized fibular graft.” Clin Orthop Relat Res, no. 386 (May 2001): 106–13. https://doi.org/10.1097/00003086-200105000-00014.
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  - Garberina, M. J., R. D. Fitch, E. D. Hoffmann, W. T. Hardaker, T. P. Vail, and S. P. Scully. “Knee arthrodesis with circular external fixation.” Clin Orthop Relat Res, no. 382 (January 2001): 168–78. https://doi.org/10.1097/00003086-200101000-00023.
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  - Speer, M. C., J. Nye, D. McLone, G. Worley, E. C. Melvin, K. D. Viles, A. Franklin, C. Drake, J. Mackey, and T. M. George. “Possible interaction of genotypes at cystathionine beta-synthase and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) in neural tube defects. NTD Collaborative Group.” Clin Genet 56, no. 2 (August 1999): 142–44. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1399-0004.1999.560208.x.
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  - Ward, W. T., M. Vogt, J. S. Grudziak, Y. Tümer, P. C. Cook, and R. D. Fitch. “Severin classification system for evaluation of the results of operative treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip. A study of intraobserver and interobserver reliability.” J Bone Joint Surg Am 79, no. 5 (May 1997): 656–63. https://doi.org/10.2106/00004623-199705000-00004.
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  - Murray, J. H., and R. D. Fitch. “Distraction Histiogenesis: Principles and Indications.” J Am Acad Orthop Surg 4, no. 6 (November 1996): 317–27. https://doi.org/10.5435/00124635-199611000-00004.
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  - Coogan, P. G., J. A. Fox, and R. D. Fitch. “Treatment of adolescent Blount disease with the circular external fixation device and distraction osteogenesis.” J Pediatr Orthop 16, no. 4 (July 1996): 450–54. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004694-199607000-00006.
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  - Fitch, R. D., J. G. Thompson, W. S. Rizk, A. V. Seaber, and W. E. Garrett. “The effects of the Ilizarov distraction technique on bone and muscle in a canine model: a preliminary report.” Iowa Orthop J 16 (1996): 10–19.
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  - Saies, A. D., J. R. Urbaniak, J. A. Nunley, J. S. Taras, R. D. Goldner, and R. D. Fitch. “Results after replantation and revascularization in the upper extremity in children.” J Bone Joint Surg Am 76, no. 12 (December 1994): 1766–76. https://doi.org/10.2106/00004623-199412000-00003.
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  - Murrell, G. A., and R. D. Fitch. “Hip fusion in young adults. Using a medial displacement osteotomy and cobra plate.” Clin Orthop Relat Res, no. 300 (March 1994): 147–54.
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  - Murrell, G. A., R. W. Coonrad, C. T. Moorman, and R. D. Fitch. “An assessment of the reliability of the Scoliometer.” Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 18, no. 6 (May 1993): 709–12. https://doi.org/10.1097/00007632-199305000-00006.
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  - Mallon, W. J., and R. D. Fitch. “The medial approach to the hip revisited.” Orthopedics 16, no. 1 (January 1993): 39–42.
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  - Hardaker, W. T., W. A. Cook, A. H. Friedman, and R. D. Fitch. “Bilateral transpedicular decompression and Harrington rod stabilization in the management of severe thoracolumbar burst fractures.” Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 17, no. 2 (February 1992): 162–71. https://doi.org/10.1097/00007632-199202000-00008.
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  - Goldner, J. L., and R. D. Fitch. “Growing pains.” Orthop Rev 20, no. 10 (October 1991): 926–27.
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  - Taras, J. S., J. A. Nunley, J. R. Urbaniak, R. D. Goldner, and R. D. Fitch. “Replantation in children.” Microsurgery 12, no. 3 (1991): 216–20. https://doi.org/10.1002/micr.1920120311.
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  - Fitch, R. D., M. Turi, B. E. Bowman, and W. T. Hardaker. “Comparison of Cotrel-Dubousset and Harrington rod instrumentations in idiopathic scoliosis.” J Pediatr Orthop 10, no. 1 (January 1990): 44–47.
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  - Goldner, R. D., M. P. Howson, J. A. Nunley, R. D. Fitch, N. R. Belding, and J. R. Urbaniak. “One hundred eleven thumb amputations: replantation vs revision.” Microsurgery 11, no. 3 (1990): 243–50. https://doi.org/10.1002/micr.1920110312.
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  - Mabrey, J. D., and R. D. Fitch. “Plastic deformation in pediatric fractures: mechanism and treatment.” J Pediatr Orthop 9, no. 3 (May 1989): 310–14.
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  - Speer, K. P., and R. D. Fitch. “Neisseria gonorrhoeae foot abscess. A case report.” Clin Orthop Relat Res, no. 234 (September 1988): 209–10.
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  - Goldner, R. D., R. D. Fitch, J. A. Nunley, M. S. Aitken, and J. R. Urbaniak. “Demographics and replantation.” J Hand Surg Am 12, no. 5 Pt 2 (September 1987): 961–65. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0363-5023(87)80265-4.
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  - Jense, H. G., P. S. A. Glass, and R. D. Fitch. “Continuous caudal block in an infant with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita.” Regional Anesthesia 12, no. 1 (January 1, 1987): 18–21.
  - Herring, J. A., and R. D. Fitch. “Lateral condylar fracture of the elbow.” J Pediatr Orthop 6, no. 6 (November 1986): 724–27. https://doi.org/10.1097/01241398-198611000-00015.
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  - Bolesta, M. J., and R. D. Fitch. “Tibial tubercle avulsions.” J Pediatr Orthop 6, no. 2 (March 1986): 186–92. https://doi.org/10.1097/01241398-198603000-00013.
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  - Trumble, T., and R. D. Fitch. “Kawasaki disease--a cause of vasculitis in children.” J Pediatr Orthop 6, no. 1 (January 1986): 92–95. https://doi.org/10.1097/01241398-198601000-00017.
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  - PIATT, J. H., C. W. ERWIN, R. A. RADTKE, P. W. GILMER, and R. D. FITCH. “SCIATIC-NERVE POTENTIALS-EVOKED BY DORSAL EPIDURAL SPINAL-CORD STIMULATION - DO THEY REFLECT CORTICOSPINAL TRACT FUNCTIONS.” Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology 61, no. 2 (January 1, 1985): P19–P19.
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  - Fitch, R. D., J. R. Urbaniak, and R. J. Ruderman. “Conjoined flexor and extensor pollicis longus tendons in the hypoplastic thumb.” J Hand Surg Am 9, no. 3 (May 1984): 417–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0363-5023(84)80234-8.
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  - ERWIN, C. W., R. D. FITCH, W. T. HARDAKER, and R. J. RUDERMAN. “BIPOLAR AND EPIDURAL RESPONSES TO TIBIAL STIMULATION DURING SURGERY IN MAN.” Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology 58, no. 2 (January 1, 1984): P54–55.
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  - Mayer, Stephanie W., Elizabeth W. Hubbard, Dan Sun, Robert K. Lark, and Robert D. Fitch. “Gradual Deformity Correction in Blount Disease.” J Pediatr Orthop 39, no. 5 (n.d.): 257–62. https://doi.org/10.1097/BPO.0000000000000920.
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Teaching & Mentoring
Recent Courses
- ORTHO 421C: Fractures/Musculoskeletal Trauma 2020
- ORTHO 433C: Pediatric Orthopaedics 2020

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Education, Training, & Certifications

Duke Appointment History

Global Scholarship

Expertise

Teaching

Selected Grants

Selected Publications

Academic Articles

Recent Courses