Vascular Medicine Research

 

Investigating All Aspects of Peripheral Vascular Disorders

The Vascular Medicine Research Program at BIDMC spans all areas of investigation involving peripheral vascular disorders, with disciplines ranging from basic/translational research to clinical health services and outcomes research. Consisting of a diverse group of investigators, the program receives funding from non-profit foundations, the National Institutes of Health, industry partnerships and philanthropy. The program has a particular interest in training new investigators, and members of the program include medical students, residents/fellows and junior faculty. The group collaborates closely with multiple biostatisticians, and the clinical research program arm operates as part of the Smith Center for Outcomes Research. Since its inception, the program has been prolific, publishing more than 40 manuscripts annually, presenting original science at national and international meetings, participating in national societies, and contributing to updates of society guideline recommendations.

Our Team

   Eric Secemsky, MD         Anna Krawisz, MD       Alec Schmaier, MD          Brett Carroll, MD             Betsy Rose, NP

 

Research

Thrombosis and Coagulation

Red blood cells flowing through vein The basic/translational thrombosis and coagulation research program, run by Alec Schmaier, MD, PhD, focuses on endothelial dysfunction that predisposes to thrombosis. In collaboration with the Division of Hemostasis and Thrombosis, Dr. Schmaier’s laboratory is using cellular and animal models and state-of-the-art intravital microscopy to understand novel mechanisms of thrombotic disease and investigate therapeutic interventions. For more information, visit: Schmaier Lab | Thrombosis research

 

Comparative Safety and Effectiveness Research

 PE-TRACT Trial

  BIDMC_Cardiologist Team BIDMC is a participating site in the multi-center, randomized PE-TRACT trial. The PE-TRACT study seeks to compare two standard approaches to pulmonary embolism (PE) treatment: catheter-directed therapy (CDT), where clot-​dissolving medicine or a vacuum is guided via catheter to dissolve/suck out blood clots in the lungs, plus anticoagulation; and anticoagulation alone. Both approaches have been shown to be effective PE treatments. However, it is not known which approach is superior, especially regarding long-term outcomes including patients’ ability to exercise and do other activities.

Elective Ascending Aortic Aneurysm Repair Outcomes

Surgeons perform operation. Treatments and Procedures | BIDMC of Boston

This project, led by Brett Carroll, MD, reviewed outcomes following elective ascending aortic repair to determine risk factors for adverse events and to evaluate difference by institutional surgical volume. The study utilized the Nationwide Readmissions Database. Results are now published in Heart.                  

 

 

Complex Hypertension Clinic

From Crisis to Control: New Clinic for Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure ...Dr. Krawisz co-led the launch of BIDMC’s Complex Hypertension Clinic, a multidisciplinary team of physicians assembled to provide high-quality care to patients with uncontrolled hypertension. The Clinic works with patients to optimize the management of their hypertension through lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and for some patients, a minimally invasive procedure called renal denervation. Read more about the Complex Hypertension Clinic here.