Robert W. Westermann
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa
Papers
2
Total Citations
15
H-Index
2
About
Robert W. Westermann is an orthopedic surgeon and researcher whose work centers on improving postoperative outcomes in hip preservation surgery. His key research areas include pain management, opioid utilization, and the use of digital health technologies to enhance patient recovery after procedures like periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) and hip arthroscopy. Westermann’s major contributions involve pioneering the use of automated mobile messaging platforms—such as the “Post-Op Buddy” system—to monitor patient-reported pain scores, track opioid consumption, and improve compliance with rehabilitation protocols. His 2019 study on PAO patients, cited 10 times, was among the first to detail real-world opioid use patterns using robotic text-messaging, offering actionable insights for reducing postoperative narcotic reliance. A subsequent randomized controlled trial in 2021 (5 citations) demonstrated that such automated systems can significantly enhance patient satisfaction and functional outcomes, as measured by the HOOS-PS and HOOS-Pain scores. Westermann’s work is notable for bridging surgical innovation with patient-centered digital tools, directly addressing the opioid crisis while optimizing recovery. His findings have influenced clinical guidelines and underscore the potential of mobile health in orthopedic care, making him a leading voice in modern, data-driven postoperative management.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 2