(a) Pathogenesis Of Aortic Stenosis : Relationship To Valvular Endothelial Function.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$254,995.00
Summary
In the 21st century, heart disease will continue to be a major cause of disability and death in Western society. However, the relative decline in the frequency of premature death due to coronary disease (such as heart attacks) combined with increases in longevity, will see the emergence of new disease states. Aortic stenosis (AS) is likely to be one of the most important of these: progressive aortic valvular narrowing, culminating in the development of heart failure, and cardiac death. To date, ....In the 21st century, heart disease will continue to be a major cause of disability and death in Western society. However, the relative decline in the frequency of premature death due to coronary disease (such as heart attacks) combined with increases in longevity, will see the emergence of new disease states. Aortic stenosis (AS) is likely to be one of the most important of these: progressive aortic valvular narrowing, culminating in the development of heart failure, and cardiac death. To date, the only established treatment for severe AS is valve replacement. The incidence of AS increases with age: approximately 40% of individuals over the age of 80 have some AS, while 4% have severe AS. Studies to date have revealed that AS is more likely to occur (and to progress rapidly) in patients with impaired kidney function, and that some coronary risk factors (high cholesterol levels and diabetes, for example) also predispose to AS. The planned research will examine the potential role of the (endothelial) cells lining the aortic valve in protecting against the development of AS. In particular, we will try to identify which chemicals interfere with endothelial function, and how this leads to thickening of the valve. The ulitmate objective of this research is to delineate the chemical factors causing AS, in order to help in the development of preventative strategies for this disease.Read moreRead less
SUcceSS: SUrgery For Spinal Stenosis - A Randomised Placebo-controlled Trial
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$2,303,245.00
Summary
This will be the first placebo-controlled randomised trial of surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis and aims to determine the efficacy and safety of this intervention in decreasing pain and improving disability in this population. The cost-effectiveness of surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis will also be determined.
Effectiveness Of Imaging Pathways For CVD Epidemics Of The Elderly
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$713,453.00
Summary
Cardiac imaging is widely used to guide cardiology treatments, especially in the cardiovascular disease epidemics of the elderly (atrial fibrillation, aortic stenosis and heart failure). However, despite the expenditure of ~$1 billion/year on cardiac imaging in Australia, there is little evidence of value. This Partnership seeks to link researchers with providers and imaging industry to provide data regarding appropriate use, quality control and integration of decision-making with imaging.
Prevention Of Stroke Caused By Carotid Atherosclerosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$200,062.00
Summary
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability and a huge drain on health resources in Australia and worldwide. Carotid artery atherosclerosis (vascular disease) is an important cause of stroke. Currently surgery (with a significant risk of stroke-death) is commonly performed to prevent carotid stroke. My aim is to show that current best practice medical intervention is superior to surgery and to identify high risk patients for whom additional stroke prevention strategies may be justified.
Congenital aortic stenosis is a life-long condition caused by a narrowing of the aortic valve. It accounts for 2-6% of congenital heart disease, and if left untreated, results in heart failure and death. While several surgical and non-surgical interventions are available, the ideal treatment for this condition is unclear. My research aims to evaluate outcomes of aortic valve repair and compare it to other techniques.
The Influence Of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation On Myocardial Structure And Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$110,218.00
Summary
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation has given options to elderly patients who were previously faced with an open-heart operation. Our research utilises CT scans to determine the anatomical and physiological effects this new technology has on the heart. This research will help to guide the ongoing development and refinement of this technology. The research has the potential to revolutionise how aortic stenosis is assessed and timing of intervention is determined.
Atherosclerotic Plaque Imaging With High Resolution MRI / Multi-Detector CT / PET
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$64,631.00
Summary
Diseased blood vessels often involve build up of cholesterol plaques that cause blockages or poor blood flow. This can lead to strokes and heart attacks. Our research aims to investigate the properties of diseased vessels in the neck with the latest scanning technologies to identifying individuals who are at risk of strokes. We hope to show that the inflammatory activity and composition of the plaques play important roles in leading to the development of strokes.