Biomechanics of aortic dissection

Aortic dissection (AD) is a medical emergency caused by a tear in the wall of the aorta. One in two patients who suffer AD will die before they reach hospital and of those that reach hospital, another 50% will die within 30 days. It is a condition that affects young and middle-aged patients. A dilated aorta or aortic aneurysm is an important precursor to the devastating event of AD. There is currently no reliable way to predict which patients with dilated aortas will progress to AD and most patients suffer an AD below the size threshold for prophylactic surgery. In this project you will combine imaging and biomechanical analysis to identify factors that will better predict those patients that are likely to suffer an AD. This will allow early preventative surgery in these patients and thereby reduce premature death and morbidity. The data collected and the techniques developed in this study will support the development of an artificial intelligence platform to integrate imaging, clinical and demographic factors for improved diagnosis and treatment.

• Degree in bioengineering or related field
• Experience in computational modelling
  

This project is eligible for funding but is subject to eligibility criteria & funding availability.

Page expires: 4 August 2025