Cardiac Surgery

Vascular and valvular diseases, cardiomyopathy, statistical shape analysis, roboticsOur research lab employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating expertise in cardiology, biomedical engineering, computer science, and robotics, to unravel the complexities of cardiovascular diseases, particularly vascular and valvular disorders and cardiomyopathy. By leveraging advanced techniques in statistical shape analysis and robotics, we aim to develop innovative diagnostic tools, therapeutic strategies, and personalized treatment plans that improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Our research focuses on identifying early morphological indicators of disease progression, enhancing surgical interventions through robotic-assisted systems, and harnessing the power of personalized medicine to optimize cardiovascular care. Ultimately, our goal is to transform the management of these debilitating conditions and offer new hope to patients and their families.

Publications:

• Cardiovision: a fully automated deep learning package for medical image segmentation and reconstruction generating digital twins for patients with aortic stenosis - Amir Rouhollahi, James Noel Willi, Sandra Haltmeier, Alireza Mehrtash, Ross Straughan, Hoda Javadikasgari, Jonathan Brown, Akinobu Itoh, Kim I de la Cruz, Elena Aikawa, Elazer R Edelman, Farhad R Neza (Computerized Medical Imaging and Graphics, 2023)

• TCT-390 AI-Guided Assessment of Calcium Burden for Enhanced Risk Stratification and Outcome Prediction in Severe Aortic Stenosis Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement - Amir Rouhollahi, Sandra Haltmeier, Hoda Javadikasgari, Elias Bou Farhat, Kim de la Cruz, Elena Aikawa, and Farhad Nezami (Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2023)
• Predicting one-year left ventricular mass index regression following transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with severe aortic stenosis: A new era is coming - MM Asheghan, H Javadikasgari, T Attary, A Rouhollahi, R Straughan, FR Nezami, ER Edelman (, 2023)
• Aortic dissection is determined by specific shape and hemodynamic interactions - JG Williams, D Marlevi, JL Bruse, FR Nezami, H Moradi, RN Fortunato, ER Edelman, M Pasta (, 2022)

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Atherosclerosis

Lesion characterization, risk stratification, and endovascular implants development (Structural, hemodynamics, and drug delivery modeling) involve the analysis and understanding of various aspects related to vascular health and interventions. This encompasses the evaluation of lesions or abnormalities within the vascular system, assessing the associated risks and stratifying patients based on their risk profiles. Additionally, it involves the development of endovascular implants, which are medical devices designed to be introduced into the vascular system through minimally invasive procedures. The development of these implants encompasses structural considerations, hemodynamic modeling to understand blood flow patterns, and drug delivery modeling to optimize the release and distribution of therapeutic agents within the targeted vascular regions.

Publications:

• Imagine the stress! - Amir Rouhollahi, Karim Kadry, Elazer R. Edelman, Farhad R. Nezami (The 19th international symposium on Biomechanics in Vascular Biology and Cardiovascular Disease, 2024)

Emergency Medicine

Emergency medicine encompasses a multifaceted approach to addressing critical health situations. This includes the utilization of mechanical support systems such as ventilators and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to sustain vital functions in patients experiencing respiratory or cardiac failure. Additionally, advancements in medical technology have led to the development of artificial heart and lung devices, providing temporary or permanent solutions for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory conditions. Furthermore, transplantation remains a vital aspect of emergency medicine, offering life-saving options for individuals with organ failure. These innovative interventions underscore the continuous evolution of emergency medical care, ensuring timely and effective responses to emergent health crises.

Publications:

• Modeling Hemodynamics of Rotary Blood Pumps and Predicting the Potential Risks - LN Rossato, J Kusner, FR Nezami (, 2023)