Clinical Research Directory

Pathogenetic Basis of Aortopathy and Aortic Valve Disease

The main purpose of this study is to define the complex genetic and pathogenic basis of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and other forms of aortopathy and/or aortic valve disease by identifying novel disease-causing genes and by identifying important genetic modifiers for aortic and aortic valve disease severity.

Real-world Study on Fenestrated Stent for Thoracic Aortic Dissection

Study Title: "Multi-center Real-world Study on Straight Tubular Thoracic Aortic Perforated Stent-Graft System for Treating Thoracic Aortic Dissection" Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Talos stent-graft system, a new device designed to treat aortic dissection (a life-threatening condition where the inner layer of the aorta tears). The stent has unique features like perforations and tapered design to reduce complications compared to traditional stents. Key Features of the Talos Stent: Longer length to cover more of the damaged aorta Perforated design at the distal end to improve blood flow Tapered shape to better match natural aortic anatomy Potentially reduces risks like new tears or spinal cord ischemia Study Details: Type: Real-world study (combining prospective and retrospective data) Duration: 3 years (2024-2027) Participants: 320 patients across 5 major hospitals in Shanghai Follow-up: Regular check-ups at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-surgery Who Can Participate? Patients may qualify if they: Are ≥18 years old Have aortic dissection requiring treatment Have suitable blood vessels for stent placement Can commit to follow-up visits Who Cannot Participate? Patients with: Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome) Active infections or cancer with limited life expectancy Severe allergies to stent materials/contrast dye Pregnancy or planning pregnancy What Does Participation Involve? Pre-Surgery: Physical exams, blood tests, CT scans Surgery: Minimally invasive stent placement via groin artery Post-Surgery: Blood pressure management, antiplatelet medication (e.g., aspirin) Follow-up: CT scans and quality-of-life questionnaires Potential Benefits: Improved aortic healing Reduced need for repeat surgeries Better quality of life (measured by VascuQoL questionnaire) Possible Risks: Standard stent risks (bleeding, infection, allergic reactions) Device-related complications (leaks, migration, new tears) Organ ischemia (reduced blood flow to kidneys/other organs) Safety Monitoring: Independent review of all CT scans 24/7 access to vascular specialists Immediate reporting of any complications Ethical Protections: Approved by ethics committees at all hospitals Voluntary participation with signed consent Right to withdraw anytime without affecting care For Healthcare Providers: This investigator-initiated study (IIS) is funded by Shanghai Science \& Technology Commission. It uses standardized protocols across centers with electronic data capture (EDC) for consistency. The primary endpoint is 12-month treatment success (defined as technical success + no reintervention). Secondary endpoints include aortic remodeling rates and complication profiles. Contact Information: Principal Investigator: Dr. Meng Qingyou Institution: Shanghai General Hospital Phone: +86-133-0621-1019

Comparing Hypothermic Temperatures During Hemiarch Surgery

Hypothermic circulatory arrest is an important surgical technique, allowing complex aortic surgeries to be performed safely. Hypothermic circulatory arrest provides protection to cerebral and visceral organs, but may result in longer cardiopulmonary bypass times during surgery, increased risks of bleeding, inflammation, and neuronal injury. To manage these consequences, a trend towards warmer core body temperatures during circulatory arrest has emerged. This trial will randomize patients to either mild (32°C) or moderate (26°C) hypothermia during aortic hemiarch surgery to determine if mild hypothermia reduces the length of cardiopulmonary bypass time and other key measures of morbidity and mortality.