Research and Innovation
The Johns Hopkins Broccoli Aortic Center is committed to advancing the field of aortic care through groundbreaking research and innovation. Our research program benefits from Johns Hopkins’ rich collaborative environment, with partnerships across engineering, genetics, computational medicine and other disciplines. This multispecialty approach accelerates the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications that directly benefit patients.
Patients at the Broccoli Aortic Center have opportunities to participate in clinical trials that may provide access to novel treatments before they are widely available. To help patients make informed decisions, our research coordinators carefully explain trial protocols, potential benefits and risks.
Research Areas
Our research initiatives span from basic science investigations to clinical trials of novel surgical techniques and devices, all aimed at improving outcomes for people with aortic disease.
Basic Science Research
Investigating the molecular and genetic mechanisms behind aortic aneurysm and dissection to identify new therapeutic targets and develop personalized treatment approaches.
Clinical Research
Participating in and leading national and international clinical trials to evaluate new surgical techniques, endovascular devices and medical therapies for aortic conditions.
Surgical Innovation
Developing and refining novel surgical approaches, such as the endovascular aortic root repair (Endo-Bentall) and normothermic arch replacement techniques pioneered by Mehrdad Ghoreishi, cardiac surgical director of our center.
Outcomes Research
Analyzing short- and long-term outcomes of various treatment approaches to continuously improve patient selection, procedure techniques and postsurgical care protocols.
Current Research Initiatives
Next-Generation Endovascular Devices
Evaluating advanced stent grafts designed for the ascending aorta and arch, areas traditionally requiring open surgery. These trials offer patients access to cutting-edge technologies not widely available elsewhere.
Aortic Valve Preservation
Researching innovative techniques to repair rather than replace the aortic valve, preserving native tissue and eliminating the need for lifelong anticoagulation or repeat surgeries due to prosthetic valve deterioration.
Predictive Modeling
Developing advanced computational models that use patient-specific imaging and genetic data to predict aortic disease progression and rupture risk, allowing for more precise timing of interventions.