Research focus of the Department of Cardiac Surgery
Our research focuses on five key areas: minimally invasive surgery, aortic surgery, structural heart surgery, heart transplantation and heart failure, as well as basic research. These subjects are approached from both a clinical and experimental perspective. Furthermore, clinical data is used to gain new insights and to further develop treatment methods. The clinic places particular emphasis on translational research, with the aim of transferring scientific findings into clinical applications for the benefit of patients.
Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery
Minimally invasive cardiac surgery is a contemporary surgical technique that enables physicians to address cardiac conditions through small incisions rather than extensive surgical openings. In contrast to traditional open-heart surgery, this approach largely preserves the integrity of the sternum. Surgeons employ specialized instruments and endoscopic cameras to perform the intervention. The advantages are significant: reduced postoperative pain, decreased risk of infections, and expedited recovery periods for patients. Our research team is dedicated to the continuous enhancement of these methodologies to ensure they become increasingly safe and advantageous for patient care.
Aortic Surgery
Aortic diseases, like aneurysms and dissections, can be very serious and often need emergency surgery. We’re dedicated to improving how these surgeries are done by co-developing new techniques and cutting-edge implants that make procedures safer and less invasive. Our aim is to reduce risks during surgery and greatly enhance the quality of life for our patients.
Structural Heart Surgery
Structural heart diseases include those that affect the heart valves, heart walls and other anatomical structures of the heart. Defects such as valve stenosis, leaks or congenital heart defects can significantly impair heart function and often require surgical intervention. Our research focuses on the further development of minimally invasive procedures, such as catheter-based valve implantation, and innovative reconstruction techniques.
Heart Failure and Heart Transplantation
Heart failure is one of the most serious heart conditions, in which the heart is no longer able to supply the body with sufficient blood. In advanced stages, a heart transplant or the use of mechanical support systems such as artificial hearts or heart pumps are often the only life-saving options. Our research aims to improve long-term outcomes after heart transplantation and develop alternative treatment strategies for severely ill patients. This includes researching immune responses to prevent rejection, using regenerative therapy approaches to maintain heart function, and further developing mechanical assistance systems to offer affected patients an improved quality of life and long-term prospects. Dazu gehören die Erforschung von Immunreaktionen zur Vermeidung von Abstossungen, der Einsatz regenerativer Therapieansätze zur Erhaltung der Herzfunktion sowie die Weiterentwicklung mechanischer Assistenzsysteme, um betroffenen Patientinnen und Patienten eine verbesserte Lebensqualität und langfristige Perspektive zu bieten.
Basic and Translational Research
During cardiac surgery, temporary interruption of blood supply can lead to cell damage in the heart muscle. Our team is conducting research at the cellular level to determine how heart muscle cells respond to this stress and which protective mechanisms are activated. We are focusing on cellular signaling pathways, inflammatory processes, and regenerative approaches in order to develop new therapeutic strategies and create better long-term treatment options. Based on findings from basic research and everyday clinical practice, we develop translational approaches to transfer new procedures into clinical practice. Through projects in close cooperation with partners such as ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, we bridge the gap between basic research and application in the operating room – with the aim of being able to treat patients even more effectively in the future.
