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Research Powering Safer Aortic Care
See how the University of Colorado advances aortic care through clinical trials, innovation, and collaboration—focused on safer surgeries and better outcomes for patients.
Research That Improves Patient Care
At a Glance
- What we study: Aneurysms, dissections, and complex aortic repairs—from early detection to advanced surgical and endovascular solutions.
- How it helps you: Research translates into safer procedures, smarter imaging, and better outcomes, guided by a team that collaborates across heart and vascular care.
- Where we publish & lead: Multicenter clinical trials and publications in leading journals; co founders of the Western Aortic Collaborative (WAC) to accelerate discoveries.
Our Patient Centered Research Approach
We bring together cardiothoracic surgery, vascular surgery, radiology, cardiology, and genetics to understand aortic disease from every angle. Using advanced imaging, computational modeling, molecular biology, and surgical innovation, we move ideas from the lab to the operating room—and to your bedside.
What this means for patients
- Earlier detection & monitoring: We work on new biomarkers, imaging methods, and predictive models to identify risks sooner and tailor follow up plans.
- Innovative treatments: We study and refine open and endovascular techniques for complex aortic repairs through trials, device development, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Team based care: Our program is deeply collaborative and translational, ensuring research changes care pathways in real time.
Goals That Guide Our Work
- Early Detection & Risk Stratification
Develop and validate tools that spot aneurysms and dissections earlier—and identify who needs closer monitoring. - Surgical & Endovascular Innovation
Improve technique and technology for complex aortic repairs, backed by clinical trials and outcome tracking. - Education & Collaboration
Train future clinician scientists and partner across institutions (including the Western Aortic Collaborative) to speed progress that benefits patients.
Clinical Trials (Examples)
Why it matters: Trials offer access to new devices and approaches that may improve safety, recovery, and long term results. Ask your care team if a study is right for you.
- ARISE II / ARISE III: Evaluating ascending aortic stent grafts for select patients, including those with new type A dissection.
- ARTIZEN: Studying the Arcevo LSA™ Hybrid Stent Graft System for aortic arch/descending aorta disease, including dissection and aneurysm. We recently completed the first 4 implants of the Arcevo LSA™ Frozen Elephant Trunk at our institution — among the first 30 performed worldwide.
- IMPROVE AD: Comparing upfront TEVAR + medical therapy versus medical therapy with surveillance for subacute uncomplicated type B dissection.
- MRI Studies (Brain & Hemiarch): Tracking brain micro emboli and aortic flow before and after surgery to improve protection and outcomes.
Note: Trial availability changes. For current eligibility and open studies, schedule an appointment with our team.
Track Record of Impact
- Leadership in multicenter trials of stent grafts, biologic therapies, and surgical techniques.
- Hundreds of publications in top journals (e.g., Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Journal of Surgical Research).
- Founding member of WAC to advance techniques, mentor surgeons, and conduct multi institutional studies that answer pressing clinical questions.
- World-first milestone: First 4 implants of the Arcevo LSA™ Frozen Elephant Trunk at the University of Colorado, performed by T. Brett Reece, MD — among the first 30 implanted globally as part of the ARTIZEN trial.
Educational Resources: CTSNet Surgical Techniques
(Patient-Friendly Overview)
The resources below come from CTSNet, a trusted educational network used by heart and chest surgery specialists worldwide. While these articles and videos are created for medical professionals, the summaries below explain—in plain language—what each topic means and why it may matter to patients with complex aortic or valve conditions.
Note: Some links include surgical images or videos intended for medical education.
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Ascending Aortic Stenting as a Bridge to Definitive Aortic Repair in Acute Type A DissectionOpens in a new window
Mar 3, 2026What this means for patients: This article shows how doctors may use a temporary stent in the main artery near the heart during a life threatening aortic tear (called a Type A dissection). The stent helps stabilize the aorta, control bleeding, and buy time until a patient is strong enough for definitive surgery. This approach may be helpful in especially complex or high risk emergencies.Opens in a new window Full story -
Optimizing Endovascular Repair Using Ultrasound and Heart Imaging (IVUS and TEE)Opens in a new window
Mar 3, 2026What this means for patients: This resource explains how surgeons use advanced imaging from inside the blood vessels and heart to precisely place stents during minimally invasive aortic repair. Better imaging helps doctors ensure the repair is accurate, reduces complications, and supports safer outcomes—especially in delicate aortic dissections.Opens in a new window Full story -
Head First Graft Technique in Aortic Arch ReplacementOpens in a new window
Mar 3, 2026What this means for patients: This article describes a specialized surgical method for replacing part of the aortic arch, the curved section of the aorta that supplies blood to the brain. The technique focuses on improving blood flow to the brain during surgery, which is critical for protecting neurological function while repairing complex aortic disease.Opens in a new window Full story -
Aortic Valve Repair Using Rigid Internal Ring Annuloplasty DeviceOpens in a new window
Mar 3, 2026What this means for patients: Rather than replacing the aortic valve, some patients may be candidates for valve repair. This technique uses a small internal support ring to help the valve close properly again. Valve repair can allow patients to keep their own valve, which may reduce the need for lifelong blood thinning medications and support long term heart health.Opens in a new window Full story -
“Buff Cuff” Zone 2 Arch Replacement After Prior Type A DissectionOpens in a new window
Mar 3, 2026What this means for patients: This article highlights a surgical approach for patients who previously survived a serious aortic tear and now need additional repair of the aortic arch. The technique is designed to manage scar tissue and prior repairs safely, showing how surgeons plan complex re operations with long term durability and patient safety in mind.Opens in a new window Full story
These examples reflect the types of advanced techniques studied and refined by aortic specialists. Not every approach is appropriate for every patient—your care team will recommend the option best suited to your individual condition.
What to Do Next
- Request an appointment: Ask about imaging, surveillance plans, and whether a clinical trial could be appropriate for you.
- Bring your questions: Symptoms, activity limits, blood pressure targets, procedure options (open vs. endovascular), and recovery timelines are all great topics to discuss. (General guidance; speak with your clinician for personal recommendations.)
- Stay informed: As part of a research active program, your team continuously updates protocols based on new evidence to keep you safe and supported.