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Research

World leading aortic aneurysm research

Dilatation of the Aorta research group (DilAo).

Our world leading aortic aneurysm research

Dilatation of the Aorta research group (DilAo)

Dilatation of the Aorta research group (DilAo)
https://uefconnect.uef.fi/en/group/heart-surgery-imaging/

Our research on aortic dilatation and rupture encompasses a diverse range of studies focused on understanding the pathophysiological processes that lead to these conditions. We collaborate closely with clinical experts, physicist, surgeons, study nurses, engineers and PhD students from various institutions, including Kuopio University Hospital, the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), A.I. Virtanen Institute of Molecular Sciences (Kuopio, Finland) Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences (Finland), Karolinska Institutet (Sweden), the University of Sydney (Australia), the University of Haute-Alsace (France), and Rostock University Hospital (Germany). We employ advanced imaging techniques, biomechanical analysis, and computational modeling to identify the key factors that predict aortic dilatation and rupture. Through this interdisciplinary collaboration and the use of cutting-edge technology, our commitment is to advance our understanding of these conditions and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

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Our research encompasses distinct lines of investigation, including:

Pathophysiology of Aortic Dilatation: We study the pathophysiology of aortic aneurysms by using clinical data, CT and MRI imaging, genetics, histology, and elastometry.

Dilatation Progress Prediction: Our research focuses on identifying imaging variables that can more accurately predict aortic dilatation and rupture compared to conventional clinical methods like aortic diameter measurement.

Modern Aortic Imaging Modalities: We utilize cutting-edge imaging technology, specifically 4D Flow MRI, to explore parameters for predicting aortic dilatation and aortic wall stress.

Congenital Conditions: We explore congenital bicuspid aortic valve disease and aortic coarctation using advanced 4D magnetic resonance imaging to gain a deeper understanding of these unique conditions.

Mathematical Modeling and Simulation: To better comprehend the aorta’s response to pressure conditions, we also employ mathematical modeling and simulation techniques. We utilize digital and real elastic twin models to predict the risk of aortic dilatation and rupture, enhancing our ability to anticipate and manage these conditions.

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Publications:

Kauhanen et al, 2019, Aortic dilatation associates with flow displacement and increased circumferential wall shear stress in patients without aortic stenosis: A prospective clinical study. International Society for Magnetic Resonance In Medicine.

Kauhanen et al, 2019, High prevelance of ascending aortic dilatation in a consecutive coronary CT angiography patient population. European Radiology.

Kauhanen et al, 2020, A smaller heart-aorta-angle associates with ascending aortic dilatation and increases wall shear stress. Europeat Radiology.

Kauhanen et al, 2021, Pulmonary Artery Dilatation Is a Common Finding in a Coronary Artery CT Angiography Population. In vivo 35: 2177-2185.

Kauhanen et al, 2021, Excess of visceral adipose tissue with or without aortic elongation leads to a steeper heart position. Acta Radiologica, Volume 63, Issue 9.

Kiema et al, 2022, Wall Shear Stress Predicts Media Degeneration and Biomechanical Changes in Thoracic Aorta. Frontiers in Physiology.

Kauhanen et al, 2022, Dilatation of the ascending aorta – Growth rate, risk factors and clinical outcomes in the long-term follow-up. European Journal of Radiology. Volume 150.

Korpela et al, 2022, Flow displacement and decreased wall shear stress might be associated with the growth rate of an ascending aortic dilatation. Europeat Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery 61 (2022) 395-402.