Research
The Baird Institute (TBI) has made a significant contribution to the body of knowledge about surgical solutions for cardiothoracic conditions. There is still a lot more to be done. For our research and training programs, TBI has the valued support of, and professional affiliation with, the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney and Sydney Cardiothoracic Surgeons. Currently our major corporate partners include: St Jude Medical; Medtronic and Slater & Gordon.
Novel Conduits and Synthetic Human Elastin
Michael Byrom commenced his PhD at Sydney University in 2007. The aim of his work is to develop a novel vascular bypass conduit using synthetic human elastin. This work has the potential for making mechanical implants biocompatible when previously they were not. Michael’s research is generously funded by St Jude Medical and is due to finish in 2009. So far, this work has led to one international patent being filed, a number of competitive research grants being awarded, and results being presented at three international conferences. Michael was awarded the TAG Medical Young Investigators Award in 2008. He is also submitting for the 2009 Ralph Reader prize awarded by the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand.
Surgical Management of Mesothelioma
Tristan Yan has commenced his Masters of Surgery at Sydney University in January 2009. Tristan’s work is funded by Slater & Gordon and due for completion at the end of 2010. Tristan’s research will be twofold. First, he will perform an analysis of clinicopathologic and treatmentrelated data in a cohort of 540 patients to determine the safety and efficacy of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Second, he will work with senior colleagues to establish a tissue bank and identify potential biomarkers in order to stratify and individualise treatment therapies for patients. Tristan’s work involves review of the largest group experience in mesothelioma surgery, with the tissue bank being the most comprehensive prospective study in the area. This work has the potential to direct future multidisciplinary treatment. The second stage development of the tissue bank is being conducted in partnership with a number of research organisations including the Bernie Banton Centre, RPAH and the Garvan Institute.
Heart Failure
In 2009/2010 Medtronic has agreed to fund a Masters in Heart Failure to ensure the right paths are taken in the treatment of this major problem in our society. This scholarship will be advertised in May/June.
Prospective Observational Study of Aortic Stenosis in Patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valvular Disease: Analysis of Genetic profile.
Sarah Leishman is currently in the first year of a Masters of Surgery at Sydney University.
Multidisciplinary approach to the management of Aortic Disease
Andrew Sherrah is undertaking his honours year in Medicine at Sydney University. He is presently collating responses to a management algorithm and preparing his dissertation.
Multidisciplinary approach to the management of Heart Failure
Ross Mortimer is also undertaking his honours year in Medicine at Sydney University. He is presently collating responses to a management algorithm and preparing his dissertation.
Clinical Trials Co-Ordinator
Lisa Turner is managing the SMART, ATACAS, Heart Failure and soon to be Aortic databases. It is also proposed that she manage the implantation follow ups. It is our hope to secure funding from medical device companies and pacemaker clinic returns to assist with this work.