Professor of Surgery | Program Director, Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency | Director, Thoracic Aortic Surgery
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Research is our mechanism for improving outcomes in Aortic Surgery. We have two approaches to expanding neuroprotection in our aortic procedures. From a basic science approach, we look to extend ischemic tolerance through mitochondrial manipulation. From a clinical approach, we look to evolve our procedures into the safest approach feasible.
Optimizing Cerebral Protection in Arch Surgery
Evaluating the ways to protect the brain during aortic arch operations. Utilizing the Colorado Institutional Database and the Combine Western aortic Collaborative combined database to vet approaches.
Evaluating the Feasibility of Mitochondrial Transplant into Neurons
Optimizing harvest and delivery of mitochondria to overcome ischemia. Currently, this is an in vitro approach but we would like to expand to in vivo.
Examining the Attenuation of Embolic Stroke Related to Cardiac Surgery
Embolic stroke remains the Achilles heel of cardiac surgery. Minimizing the effects of this with manipulation of metabolic tolerance and inflammatory responses. This line of study includes both cell culture and an in vivo model.