Faculty Bibliography

Mesenteric malperfusion is a rare complication of aortic dissection associated with high mortality. Diagnosis requires a high degree of suspicion as treatment is time-sensitive, necessitating early revascularization to prevent bowel necrosis, sepsis, and multi-organ failure. Advances in endovascular techniques have improved outcomes and survival over traditional approaches. Management of type A aortic dissection with mesenteric malperfusion has shifted from central aortic repair first to a two-stage approach with revascularization and delayed aortic repair. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair has become the standard treatment for type B aortic dissection with mesenteric malperfusion. However, finding the balance between aortic repair and treating mesenteric malperfusion remains a challenge. This review highlights current strategies and promising research into new endovascular techniques and refining treatment pathways.

Robert Gross performed the first repair of a patent ductus arteriosus in 1938. His life and career were dedicated to the advancement of vascular, cardiac, pediatric surgery, and the unrelenting care of his patients.

After the success of novel angiogenesis inhibitors in cancer treatment, angiogenesis promotors for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease and coronary artery disease became the target of significant research. Promising results in animal models led to numerous randomized control trials that failed to translate into meaningful clinical results. The goal of this review is to describe the history of investigation into therapeutic angiogenesis for cardiovascular disease and discuss the lessons learned and future directions.

Options for treatment of symptomatic carotid bifurcation disease include carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS). While over the years CEA has established itself as the gold standard for carotid artery revascularization, results from recent trials have shown CAS to be safe and effective in selected patients. This review details the evolution of carotid artery bifurcation disease by highlighting key clinical trials.

Marijuana use is common and increasing due to decriminalization, legalization, and expansion of medical use. As a result, the proportion of vascular patients with marijuana is also expected to increase, raising questions if cannabis use affects the incidence and outcomes of vascular disease. Active ingredients of cannabis have been shown to interact with receptors found on vascular endothelium, promoting oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. However, current clinical studies have yet to demonstrate a relationship between marijuana use and atherosclerosis. Nonetheless, cannabis arteritis is a rare condition where cannabis is hypothesized to induce vascular inflammation. Future research with high-quality studies is needed to clarify the impact of marijuana use on vascular diseases.