Vascular Surgery Research

VASCULAR SURGERY RESEARCH

Advances in vascular care can only occur by exploring the unknown. Members of the Division of Vascular Surgery are actively researching a variety of questions ranging from why blood vessels develop vascular disease in the first place to the best ways to treat established disease in order to achieve the best outcome.

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PUBLICATIONS

Explore recent publications by researcher.

    VASCULAR SURGERY GROUP PUBLICATIONS
    • He, J. J., et al. (2023). High-intensity statin therapy reduces risk of amputation and reintervention among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 497–505.
    • Sarfati, M. R., Griffin, C. L., Kraiss, L. W., Smith, B. K. and Brooke, B. S. (2021) “Vascular surgery triage during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.” J Vasc Surg 73(6): 1858–1868.
    • Williams, C. R., et al. (2019). "Optimal medical management before lower extremity bypass for claudication in the veteran population." J Vasc Surg 69(2): 545-554.
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2019). "Prognostic implications of diagnosing frailty and sarcopenia in vascular surgery practice." J Vasc Surg 70(3): 892-900.
    • Mirabelli, L. G., et al. (2018). "Rapid Methods for Routine Frailty Assessment during Vascular Surgery Clinic Visits." Ann Vasc Surg 46: 134-141.
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Comparative effectiveness of one-stage versus two-stage basilic vein transposition arteriovenous fistulas." J Vasc Surg 67(2): 529-535 e521.
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Clinical effectiveness of open thrombectomy for thrombosed autogenous arteriovenous fistulas and grafts." J Vasc Surg 68(1): 189-196.
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Repair of a symptomatic true radial artery aneurysm at the anatomic snuff box with interposition great saphenous vein graft." J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech 4(4): 292-295.
    • Donald, G. W., et al. (2018). "Preoperative frailty assessment predicts loss of independence after vascular surgery." J Vasc Surg 68(5): 1382-1389.
    • Newhall, K., et al. (2017). "Impact and Duration of Brief Surgeon-Delivered Smoking Cessation Advice on Attitudes Regarding Nicotine Dependence and Tobacco Harms for Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease." Ann Vasc Surg 38: 113-121.
    • Bartline, P. B., et al. (2017). "Outcomes in Critical Limb Ischemia Compared by Distance from Referral Center." Ann Vasc Surg 38: 122-129.
    • DeMartino, R. R., et al. (2017). "Development of a validated model to predict 30-day stroke and 1-year survival after carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic stenosis using the Vascular Quality Initiative." J Vasc Surg 66(2): 433-444 e432.
    Claire L. Griffin, MD
    • He, J. J., et al. (2023). High-intensity statin therapy reduces risk of amputation and reintervention among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 497–505.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2021) “Predictors of Adherence to Anti-Impulse Therapy among Patients Treated for Acute Type-B Aortic Dissections.” Ann Vasc Surg 76: 95-103.
    • Gilbertson, E. A., et al. (2021) “Long-Term Impact of Vascular Surgery Stress on Frail Older Patients.” Ann Vasc Surg 70: 9-19.
    • Sarfati, M. R., et al. (2021) “Vascular surgery triage during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.” J Vasc Surg 73(6): 1858–1868.
    • Chun, T. T., et al. (2020) “Managing central venous access during a health care crisis.” J Vasc Surg 72(4): 1184-1195.
    • Griffin, C. L., et al. (2020) “Aortic disease in the time of COVID-19 and repercussions on patient care at an academic aortic center.” J Vasc Surg 72(2): 408-413.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2019). "Cost-effectiveness of repeated interventions on failing arteriovenous fistulas." J Vasc Surg 70(5): 1620-1628. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al.. (2019). "Prognostic implications of diagnosing frailty and sarcopenia in vascular surgery practice." J Vasc Surg 70(3): 892-900. 
    • Donald, G. W., et al. (2018). "Preoperative frailty assessment predicts loss of independence after vascular surgery." J Vasc Surg 68(5): 1382-1389. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Clinical effectiveness of open thrombectomy for thrombosed autogenous arteriovenous fistulas and grafts." J Vasc Surg 68(1): 189-196. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Comparative effectiveness of one-stage versus two-stage basilic vein transposition arteriovenous fistulas." J Vasc Surg 67(2): 529-535 e521. 
    • Mirabelli, L. G., et al. (2018). "Rapid Methods for Routine Frailty Assessment during Vascular Surgery Clinic Visits." Ann Vasc Surg 46: 134-141. 
    • Columbo, J. A., et al. (2017). "Carotid endarterectomy should not be based on consensus statement duplex velocity criteria." J Vasc Surg 65(4): 1029-1038 e1021.
    • Griffin, C. L., et al. (2015). "Fate of Aneurysmal Common Iliac Artery Landing Zones Used for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair." J Endovasc Ther 22(5): 748-759.
    Brigitte K. Smith, MD, FACS, FSVS
    • Alnahhal, K. I., et al. (2023). The USMLE® STEP 1 Pass or Fail Era of the Vascular Surgery Residency Application Process: Implications for Structural Bias and Recommendations. Annals of vascular surgery, S0890-5096(23)00239-X. Advance online publication.
    • Bleicher, J., et al. (2023). Surgical Trainee Perspectives on the Opioid Crisis: The Influence of Explicit and Hidden Curricula. Journal of surgical education, 80(6), 786–796.
    • Cox, M. L., et al. (2023). Early Findings and Strategies for Successful Implementation of SIMPL Workplace-based Assessments within Vascular Surgery Residency and Fellowship Programs. Journal of vascular surgery, S0741-5214(23)01147-3. Advance online publication.
    • DeAngelo, M. M., et al. (2023). Impact of frailty on risk of long-term functional decline following vascular surgery. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 515–522. 
    • Funk, L. M., et al.. (2023). Annals of Surgery Open Access: Where is the Value, and What does the Future Hold?. Annals of surgery, 277(2), e249–e251.
    • He, J. J., et al. (2023). High-intensity statin therapy reduces risk of amputation and reintervention among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 497–505.
    • Mitzman, B., Smith, B. K., & Varghese, T. K., Jr (2023). Resident Training in Robotic Thoracic Surgery. Thoracic surgery clinics, 33(1), 25–32. 
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2023). Predicting Performance at Graduation From Early ACGME Milestone Ratings: Longitudinal Learning Analytics in Professionalism and Communication in Vascular Surgery. Journal of surgical education, 80(2), 235–246.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2023). The Use of Learning Analytics to Enable Detection of Underperforming Trainees: An Analysis of National Vascular Surgery Trainee ACGME Milestones Assessment Data. Annals of surgery, 277(4), e971–e977.
    • Sorour, A. A., et al. (2023). Vascular surgery integrated resident selection criteria in the pass or fail era. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 625–631.e8. \
    • DeAngelo, M. M., et al.. (2022) “Impact of Frailty on Risk of Long-Term Functional Decline Following Vascular Surgery.” J Vasc Surg 22: S0741-5214.
    • DeAngelo, M., Hakim, A., Darelli-Anderson, A. M., Harding, J. P. and Smith, B. K. (2022) “Medical Student Perspectives on Choosing a Career in Vascular Surgery.” Ann Vasc Surg 83: 152-157.
    • Johnson, C. E. and Smith, B. K. (2022) “My Brother's/Sister's Keeper: Collective responsibility for the professional identity of surgeons.” Am J Surg 224: 282-283.
    • Lynch, K. A., et al. (2022) “Transition from trainee to educator in the operating room: A needs assessment and framework to support junior faculty.” Am J Surg 223(6): 1112-1119.
    • Neuberger, K., et al. (2022) “Improving healthcare transitions of surgical care through an interprofessional education elective.” J Am Geriatr Soc 70(3): E11-E14.
    • Shaw, R. D., et al. (2022) “Current Barriers in Robotic Surgery Training for General Surgery Residents.” J Surg Educ 79(3): 606-613.
    • Smith, B. K., et al.. (2022). Comparison of Patient Outcomes Among Integrated Residency Versus Fellowship-trained Vascular Surgeons. Annals of surgery, 276(6), e1044–e1051.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2022) “Does training paradigm matter? A comparison of outcomes of frail patients treated by integrated vascular surgery residency and vascular surgery fellowship-trained surgeons.” Am J Surg 224(3): 881-887.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2022) “Expert Consensus on the Conceptual Alignment of ACGME Competencies with Patient Outcomes After Common Vascular Surgical Procedures.” J Vasc Surg (In Press)
    • Smith, B. K., & Mitchell, E. L. (2023). Challenges and opportunities for evidence-based training in vascular surgery. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(5), 1531–1532.
    • Sorour, A. A., et al. (2023). Vascular surgery integrated resident selection criteria in the pass or fail era. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 625–631.e8.
    • Williamson, A. J. H., Jensen, R. M. and Smith, B. K. (2022) “Educational Safety for the Surgical Learner.” J Surg Educ 79(5): 1083-1087.
    • Gilbertson, E. A., et al. (2021) “Long-Term Impact of Vascular Surgery Stress on Frail Older Patients.” Ann Vasc Surg 70: 9-19.
    • Glasgow. R. E., et al.. (2021) “Value Analysis of Methods of Inguinal Hernia Repair.” Ann Surg 274(4): 572-580.
    • Hayek, S., et al. (2021) “Disparate opinions on the value of Vice Chairs of education in Departments of Surgery: A national survey of Department Chairs and other surgical education stakeholders.” Am J Surg 221(2): 381-387.
    • Jacobs, A. C., et al. (2021) “Quality improvement education in surgical specialty training: A comparison of Vascular Surgery resident and Urology Resident experiences and attitudes.” Am J Surg 221(5): 993-999.
    • Malhotra, N. R., et al. (2021) “High value care education in general surgery residency programs: A multi-institutional needs assessment.” Am J Surg 221(2): 291-297.
    • McCrary, H. C., Colbert-Getz, J. M., Poss, W. B. and Smith, B. K. (2021) “A Systematic Review of the Relationship Between In-Training Examination Scores and Specialty Board Examination Scores.” J Grad Med Educ 13(1): 43-57.
    • Nguyen, S., et al. (2021) “Medical student attitudes and actions that encourage teaching on surgery clerkships.” Am J Surg 222(6): 1066-1071.
    • Pender, T., Boi, L., Urbik, V. M., Glasgow, R. and Smith, B. K. (2021) “Implementation and Evaluation of a Novel High-Value Care Curriculum in a Single Academic Surgery Department.” J Am Coll Surg 232(1): 81-90.
    • Sarfati, M. R., Griffin, C. L., Kraiss, L. W., Smith, B. K. and Brooke, B. S. (2021) “Vascular surgery triage during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.” J Vasc Surg 73(6): 1858–1868.
    • Smith, B. K., Rectenwald, J., Yudkowky, R. and Hirshfield, L. (2021) “A Framework for Understanding the Association Between Training Paradigm and Trainee Preparedness for Independent Surgical Practice.” JAMA Surg 156(6): 535-540.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2021) “Addressing Contemporary Management of Vascular Trauma: Optimization of Patient Care Through Collaboration.” Ann Surg 273(5): e171-e172.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2021) “The Use of Learning Analytics to Enable Detection of Underperforming Trainees: An Analysis of National Vascular Surgery Trainee ACGME Milestones Assessment Data.” Ann Surg (Online ahead of print)
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2021) “Using Learning Analytics to Examine Achievement of Graduation Targets for Systems-Based Practice and Practice-Based Learning and Improvement: A National Cohort of Vascular Surgery Fellows.” Ann Vasc Surg 76: 463-471.
    • Zemela, M. S., Malgor, R. D., Smith, B. K. and Smeds, M. R. (2021) “Feasibility and acceptability of virtual mock oral examinations for senior vascular surgery trainees and implications for the certifying exam.” Ann Vasc Surg 76: 28-37.
    • Chun, T. T., et al. (2020) “Managing central venous access during a health care crisis.” J Vasc Surg 72(4): 1184-1195.
    • Griffin, C. L., et al. (2020) “Aortic disease in the time of COVID-19 and repercussions on patient care at an academic aortic center.” J Vasc Surg 72(2): 408-413.
    • Huffman, E. M., Anderson, T. N., Choi, J. N. and Smith, B. K. (2020) “Why the Lab? What is Really Motivating General Surgery Residents to Take Time for Dedicated Research.”  J Surg Educ 77(6): e39-e46.
    • Malhotra, N. R., Lee, Y. J., Millar, M. M., Cartwright, P. C. and Smith, B. K. (2020) “Experiences With Quality Improvement in Training: A National Survey of Urology Residents.” Urology 145: 83-89.
    • Purnell, S. M., Wolf, L., Millar, M. M. and Smith, B. K. (2020) “A National Survey of Integrated Vascular Surgery Residents' Experiences With and Attitudes About Quality Improvement During Residency.” J Surg Educ 77(1): 158-165.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2020) “Comparison of Patient Outcomes Among Integrated Residency Versus Fellowship-Trained Vascular Surgeons.” Ann Surg (Online ahead of print)
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2019). "Prognostic implications of diagnosing frailty and sarcopenia in vascular surgery practice." J Vasc Surg 70(3): 892-900. 
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2019). "The Current State of the 0+5 Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency Training Paradigm: A Scoping Review of the Literature." J Surg Educ 76(4): 990-1004.
    • Purnell, S. M., et al. (2019). "A National Survey of Integrated Vascular Surgery Residents' Experiences With and Attitudes About Quality Improvement During Residency." J Surg Educ.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2016). "0 + 5 Vascular Surgery Residents' Operative Experience in General Surgery: An Analysis of Operative Logs from 12 Integrated Programs." J Surg Educ 73(3): 536-541.
    • Gupta, P. K., et al. (2015). "Case Report of Percutaneous Retrograde Transcollateral Recanalization of the Superior Mesenteric Artery via the Celiac Artery for Acute Mesenteric Ischemia." Medicine (Baltimore) 94(50): e2036.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2015). "Utilization of the Electronic Health Record to Improve Provision of Smoking Cessation Resources for Vascular Surgery Inpatients." Int J Cardiovasc Res 4(5).
    Benjamin S. Brooke, MD, PhD, FACS
    • Buys, M. J., et al. (2023). Postsurgical Opioid Use Among Veterans Discharged to Skilled Care Facilities Compared to Veterans Discharged to Home After Orthopedic Surgery. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 24(2), 258–262.e1.
    • Cohan, J. N., et al. (2023). The Association Between Family History and Diverticulitis Recurrence: A Population-Based Study. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 66(2), 269–277.
    • He, J. J., et al. (2023). High-intensity statin therapy reduces risk of amputation and reintervention among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 497–505.
    • Marcaccio, C. L., AbuRahma, A. F., Eldrup-Jorgensen, J., Brooke, B. S., & Schermerhorn, M. L. (2023). Vascular Quality Initiative assessment of compliance with Society for Vascular Surgery clinical practice guidelines on the management of extracranial cerebrovascular disease. Journal of vascular surgery, S0741-5214(23)00471-8. Advance online publication.
    • Weaver, M. L., et al. (2023). The measurable impact of a diversity, equity, and inclusion editor on diversifying content, authorship, and peer review participation in the Journal of Vascular Surgery. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 330–337.
    • Johnson, C. E., & Brooke, B. S. (2023). Preoperative functional performance is the best predictor for loss of independence after major surgery among older adults. Evidence-based nursing, ebnurs-2022-103654. Advance online publication.
    • Bleicher, j., et al. (2022) “Postoperative opioid prescribing, use and pain trends following general surgery procedures: a retrospective cohort study among veterans comparing non-opioid versus chronic opioid users.” Reg Anesth Pain Med (Online ahead of print)
    • Brown-Taylor, L., et al. (2022) “Relationships between physical therapy intervention and opioid use: A scoping review.” PM R 14(7): 837-854.
    • DeAngelo, M. M., et al. (2022) “Impact of Frailty on Risk of Long-Term Functional Decline Following Vascular Surgery.” J Vasc Surg 22: S0741-5214.
    • Eid, M. A., et al. (2022) Effect of a Decision Aid on Agreement Between Patient Preferences and Repair Type for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A Randomized Clinical Trial. AMA Surg e222935 (Online ahead of print). 
    • Eid, M. A., et al. (2022). Factors associated with preference of choice of aortic aneurysm repair in the PReference for Open Versus Endovascular repair of AAA (PROVE-AAA) study. Journal of vascular surgery, 76(6), 1556–1564.
    • Featherall, J., et al. (2022) “A Multidisciplinary Transitional Pain Management Program Is Associated With Reduced Opioid Dependence After Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty.” J Arthroplasty 37(6):1048-1053.
    • Goodney, P., et al. (2022). Use of linked registry claims data for long term surveillance of devices after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: observational surveillance study. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 379, e071452.
    • Hakim, A. J., Brooke, B. S., Beckstrom, J. L., Sarfati, M. R. and Kraiss, L. W. (2022) “Rules of 6 criteria predict dialysis fistula maturation but not all rules are equal.” J Vasc Surg 76(1): 232-238.
    • Holeman, T. A., et al. (2022) “Complete opioid cessation after surgery improves patient-reported pain measures among chronic opioid users.” Surgery 172(3): 943-948.
    • Holeman, T. A., Groberg, J., Hales, J. L. and Brooke, B. S. (2022) “Patient-reported physical function as a preoperative predictor of recovery after vascular surgery.” J Vasc Surg 76(2): 564-571.
    • Jones, J. M., et al. (2022) “Short-Term Concerns Primarily Determine Patient Preference for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair.” J Surg Res 269: 119-128.
    • Kraiss, L. W., et al. (2022) “A Vascular Quality Initiative frailty assessment predicts postdischarge mortality in patients undergoing arterial reconstruction.” J Vasc Surg 14: S0741-5214.
    • Neuberger, K., et al. (2022) “Improving healthcare transitions of surgical care through an interprofessional education elective.” J Am Geriatr Soc 70(3): E11-E14.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2022) “Does training paradigm matter? A comparison of outcomes of frail patients treated by integrated vascular surgery residency and vascular surgery fellowship-trained surgeons.” Am J Surg 224(3): 881-887.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2022) “Expert Consensus on the Conceptual Alignment of ACGME Competencies with Patient Outcomes After Common Vascular Surgical Procedures.” J Vasc Surg (In Press)
    • Stokes, S. M., et al.  (2022) “Hospital Costs Following Surgical Complications: A Value-driven Outcomes Analysis of Cost Savings Due to Complication Prevention.” Ann Surg 275(2): e375-e381.
    • Bleicher, J., Stokes, S. M., Brooke, B. S., Glasgow, R. E. and Huang, L. C. (2021) “Patient-centered Opioid Prescribing: Breaking Away From One-Size-Fits-All Prescribing Guidelines.” J Surg Res 264: 1-7.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2021) Thoracic endovascular aortic repair in octogenarians: Palliative or curative? J Vasc Surg 74(3): 893-894.
    • Brooke, B. S., Ghaferi, A. A. and Kibbe, M. R. (2021) “Effective Use of Reporting Guidelines to Improve the Quality of Surgical Research.” JAMA Surg 156(6): 515-516.
    • Brooke, B. S., Schwartz, T. A. and Pawlik, T. M. (2021) “MOOSE Reporting Guidelines for Meta-analyses of Observational Studies.” JAMA Surg 156(8): 787-788.
    • Brooke, B. S., Kaji, A. H. and Itani, K. M. F. (2021) “Practical Guide to Cost-effectiveness Analysis.” JAMA Surg 155(3): 250-251.
    • Brooke, B. S., Griffin, C. L., Glotzbach, J. P., Horns, J. J., Patel, S. and Kraiss, L. W. (2021) “Predictors of Adherence to Anti-Impulse Therapy among Patients Treated for Acute Type-B Aortic Dissections.” Ann Vasc Surg 76: 95-103.
    • Cohan. J. N., et al. (2021) “The Association between Family History and Diverticulitis Recurrence: A Population-Based Study.” Dis Colon Rectum (Online ahead of print) 
    • Gilbertson, E. A., et al.  (2021) “Long-Term Impact of Vascular Surgery Stress on Frail Older Patients.” Ann Vasc Surg 70: 9-19.
    • Kawamoto, K., et al. (2021) “Establishing a multidisciplinary initiative for interoperable electronic health record innovations at an academic medical center.” JAMIA Open 4(3): (In Press)
    • Kraiss, L. W. and Brooke, B. S. (2021) “Frailty Assessment and Shared Decision-making.” JAMA Surg 156(9): 889-890.
    • O'Banion, L. A., et al. (2021) “Popliteal scoring assessment for vascular extremity injuries in trauma study.” J Vasc Surg 74(3): 804-813.
    • O'Banion, L. A., et al. (2021) “Contemporary outcomes of traumatic popliteal artery injury repair from the popliteal scoring assessment for vascular extremity injury in trauma study.” J Vasc Surg 74(5): 1573-1580.
    • Sarfati, M. R., Griffin, C. L., Kraiss, L. W., Smith, B. K. and Brooke, B. S. (2021) “Vascular surgery triage during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.” J Vasc Surg 73(6): 1858–1868.
    • Anderson, P. B., et al.. (2020) “Patient information sources when facing repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm.” J Vasc Surg 71(2): 497-504.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2020) “Treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms in the endovascular-first era.” J Vasc Surg 72(2): 518-519.
    • Buys, M. J., et al. (2020) “Multidisciplinary Transitional Pain Service for the Veteran Population.” Fed Pract 37(10): 472-478.
    • Buys, M. J., et al. (2020) “Opioid use among veterans undergoing major joint surgery managed by a multidisciplinary transitional pain service.” Reg Anesth Pain Med 45(11): 847-852.
    • Columbo, J. A., et al. (2020) “Design of the PReferences for Open Versus Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (PROVE-AAA) Trial.” Ann Vasc Surg 65: 247-253.
    • George, E. L., et al. (2020) “Variation in center-level frailty burden and the impact of frailty on long-term survival in patients undergoing elective repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms.” J Vasc Surg 71(1): 46-55.
    • Griffin, C. L., et al. (2020) “Aortic disease in the time of COVID-19 and repercussions on patient care at an academic aortic center.” J Vasc Surg 72(2): 408-413.
    • Holeman, T. A., Peacock, J., Beckstrom, J. L. and Brooke, B. S. (2020) “Patient-Surgeon Agreement in Assessment of Frailty, Physical Function, & Social Activity.” J Surg Res 256: 368-373.
    • Johnson, J. K., et al. (2020) “Physical Function in the Hospital Is Associated With Patient-Centered Outcomes in an Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility.” Phys Ther 100(8): 1237-1248.
    • Kraiss, L. W., et al. (2020) “Failure on a Vascular Surgery Board-American Board of Surgery Examination does not predict cardiovascular outcomes in the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative.” J Vasc Surg 72(5):1753-1760.
    • McCrum, M. L., et al. (2020) “Contributors to Increased Mortality Associated With Care Fragmentation After Emergency General Surgery.” JAMA Surg 155(9): 841-848.
    • Smith, B. K., et al. (2020) “Comparison of Patient Outcomes Among Integrated Residency Versus Fellowship-Trained Vascular Surgeons.” Ann Surg (Online ahead of print)
    • Stokes, S. M., et al. (2020). "Home Disposal Kits for Leftover Opioid Medications After Surgery: Do They Work?" J Surg Res 245: 396-402.
    • Swords D.S., Mulvihill S.J., Brooke B.S., Firpo M.A., Scaife C.L. (2020). “Size and Importance of Socioeconomic Status-Based Disparities in Use of Surgery in Nonadvanced Stage Gastrointestinal Cancers.” Ann Surg Oncol, 27(2): 333-341.
    • Brooke B.S., Kaji A.H., Itani K.M.F. (2020). “Practical Guide to Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.” JAMA Surg, 155(3): 250-251.
    • George E.L., et al. (2020). “Variation in center-level frailty burden and the impact of frailty on long-term survival in patients undergoing elective repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms.” J Vasc Surg, 71(1): 46-55.
    • Stokes, S. M., et al. (2020). "Home Disposal Kits for Leftover Opioid Medications After Surgery: Do They Work?" J Surg Res 245: 396-402.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2019). "Cost-effectiveness of repeated interventions on failing arteriovenous fistulas." J Vasc Surg 70(5): 1620-1628.
    • Martin, L. A., et al. (2019). "Predicting ICU readmission among surgical ICU patients: Development and validation of a clinical nomogram." Surgery 165(2): 373-380.
    • Tan, T. W., et al. (2019). "Comparison of one-stage and two-stage upper arm brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula in the Vascular Quality Initiative." J Vasc Surg 69(4): 1187-1195 e1182.
    • Swords, D. S., et al. (2019). "Facility Variation in Local Staging of Rectal Adenocarcinoma and its Contribution to Underutilization of Neoadjuvant Therapy." J Gastrointest Surg 23(6): 1206-1217.
    • Swords, D. S., et al. (2019). "Disparities in utilization of treatment for clinical stage I-II pancreatic adenocarcinoma by area socioeconomic status and race/ethnicity." Surgery 165(4): 751-759.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2019). "Achieving High-value Surgical Care Through Accountable Care Organizations: Are the Risks Worth the Rewards?" Ann Surg 269(2): 197-198.
    • Swords, D. S., et al. (2019). "County-level Variation in Use of Surgery and Cancer-specific Survival for Stage I-II Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma." Ann Surg.
    • Columbo, J. A., et al. (2019). "Design of The PReferences for Open Versus Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (PROVE-AAA) Trial." Ann Vasc Surg.
    • George, E. L., et al. (2019). "Variation in center-level frailty burden and the impact of frailty on long-term survival in patients undergoing elective repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms." J Vasc Surg.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2019). "Discordance in Information Exchange Between Providers During Care Transitions for Surgical Patients." J Surg Res 244: 174-180.
    • Smith, A. B. and B. S. Brooke (2019). "How Implementation Science in Surgery is Done." JAMA Surg. Anderson, P. B., et al. (2019). "Patient information sources when facing repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm." J Vasc Surg.
    • Swords, D. S., et al. (2019). "Size and Importance of Socioeconomic Status-Based Disparities in Use of Surgery in Nonadvanced Stage Gastrointestinal Cancers." Ann Surg Oncol.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2018). "Association of Quality Improvement Registry Participation With Appropriate Follow-up After Vascular Procedures." JAMA Surg 153(3): 216-223.
    • Osborne, Z., et al. (2018). "Variation in Transfusion Practices and the Association with Perioperative Adverse Events in Patients Undergoing Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair and Lower Extremity Arterial Bypass in the Vascular Quality Initiative." Ann Vasc Surg 46: 1-16.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2018). "Invited Commentary." Ann Vasc Surg 46: 52-53.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2018). "Patient and caregiver perspectives on care coordination during transitions of surgical care." Transl Behav Med 8(3): 429-438.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2018). "Past and Future Role of the Surgical Outcomes Club in Advancing Surgical Outcomes and Health Services Research." JAMA Surg 153(12): 1071-1072.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2017). "Cardiac Stress Testing during Workup for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Is Not Associated with Improved Patient Outcomes." Ann Vasc Surg 42: 222-230.
    • Martin, L. A., et al. (2017). "Patient Preparation for Transitions of Surgical Care: Is Failing to Prepare Surgical Patients Preparing Them to Fail?" World J Surg 41(6): 1447-1453.
    • Pannucci, C. J., et al. (2017). "Individualized Venous Thromboembolism Risk Stratification Using the 2005 Caprini Score to Identify the Benefits and Harms of Chemoprophylaxis in Surgical Patients: A Meta-analysis." Ann Surg 265(6): 1094-1103.
    • Slager, S., et al. (2017). "Information Exchange Between Providers During Transitions of Surgical Care: Communication, Documentation and Sometimes Both." Stud Health Technol Inform 234: 303-308.
    • Goodney, P. P., et al. (2017). "Feasibility and pilot efficacy of a brief smoking cessation intervention delivered by vascular surgeons in the Vascular Physician Offer and Report (VAPOR) Trial." J Vasc Surg 65(4): 1152-1160 e1152.
    • Hoel, A. W., et al. (2017). "A pilot study for long-term outcome assessment after aortic aneurysm repair using Vascular Quality Initiative data matched to Medicare claims." J Vasc Surg 66(3): 751-759 e751.
    • Jones, D. W., et al. (2017). "Perioperative clopidogrel is associated with increased bleeding and blood transfusion at the time of lower extremity bypass." J Vasc Surg 65(6): 1719-1728 e1711.
    • Williams, C. R. and B. S. Brooke (2017). "Effectiveness of open versus endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in population settings: A systematic review of statewide databases." Surgery 162(4): 707-720.
    • David, R. A., et al. (2017). "Early extubation is associated with reduced length of stay and improved outcomes after elective aortic surgery in the Vascular Quality Initiative." J Vasc Surg 66(1): 79-94 e14.
    • Perri, J. L., et al. (2017). "Factors affecting operative time and outcome of carotid endarterectomy in the Vascular Quality Initiative." J Vasc Surg 66(4): 1100-1108.
    • Newhall, K., et al. (2016). "Smoking cessation counseling in vascular surgical practice using the results of interviews and focus groups in the Vascular Surgeon offer and report smoking cessation pilot trial." J Vasc Surg 63(4): 1011-1017 e1012.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2016). "Conservative management of chronic upper extremity venous outflow occlusion." Phlebology 31(1 Suppl): 34-40.
    • Spangler, E. L., et al. (2016). "Design and initial enrollment in the Vascular Physicians Offer and Report (VAPOR) trial." J Vasc Surg 63(4): 1121-1125 e1122.
    • Columbo, J. A., et al. (2016). "The Prevalence and Regional Variation of Major Depressive Disorder Among Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease in the Medicare Population." Vasc Endovascular Surg 50(4): 235-240.
    • Wallaert, J. B., et al. (2016). "Relationships between 2-Year Survival, Costs, and Outcomes following Carotid Endarterectomy in Asymptomatic Patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative." Ann Vasc Surg 35: 174-182.
    • Brooke, B. S. and S. R. Finlayson (2015). "What Surgeons Can Learn From the Emerging Science of Implementation." JAMA Surg 150(10): 1006-1007.
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2015). "Readmission destination and risk of mortality after major surgery: an observational cohort study." Lancet 386(9996): 884-895.
    • Brooke, B. S. (2015). "Quality of care measures for the vascular surgery patient." Semin Vasc Surg 28(2): 61-62.
    • Bartline, P. B. and B. S. Brooke (2015). "Using implementation science to help integrate preoperative evidence-based measures into practice for vascular surgery patients." Semin Vasc Surg 28(2): 68-79.
    Larry W. Kraiss, MD, FACS

    Dr. Larry Kraiss is the leader of the Clinical Trials Section and helps to coordinate these activities for the University of Utah Department of Surgery.  

    2020 Achievements

    • The University of Utah and Dr. Larry Kraiss (principal investigator) were chosen to lead an investigative site for an SBIR grant through Sonavex, Inc. with collaborator, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) for a project called “Automated Ultrasound Flow Monitoring for Maturation of Peripheral Arteriovenous Fistulae  (AVF)”.

    2019 Achievements

    • Evaluation of PHOTO-oxidized Decellularized Bovine Pericardium Used as a Patch in Vascular Repair and Reconstruction Surgery
    • Frailty Assessment During Vascular Surgery Clinic Visits
    • Kraiss, L.W. (2020). “Moving Frailty Assessment Beyond Knowing it When You See It.” J Vasc Surg 71(1): 307-308.
    • Eldrup-Jorgenson, J., Kraiss, L.W., Chaikof, E.L., Neal, D., Forbes, T.L. (2020). “Vascular Quality Initiative Assessment of Compliance with Society for Vascular Surgery Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Care of Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.” J Vasc Surg Epub ahead of print.
    • Mell, M. W., et al. (2017). "Western Vascular Society guidelines for transfer of patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm." J Vasc Surg 65(3): 603-608.
    • Campbell, R. A., et al. (2017). "Clots Are Potent Triggers of Inflammatory Cell Gene Expression: Indications for Timely Fibrinolysis." Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 37(10): 1819-1827.
    • Humphries, M. D., et al. (2017). "Elective Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair Continues to Cost More than Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair." Ann Vasc Surg 39: 111-118.
    • Simons, J. P., et al. (2016). "A comparative evaluation of risk-adjustment models for benchmarking amputation-free survival after lower extremity bypass." J Vasc Surg 63(4): 990-997.
    • Farber, A., et al. (2016). "Multiple preoperative and intraoperative factors predict early fistula thrombosis in the Hemodialysis Fistula Maturation Study." J Vasc Surg 63(1): 163-170 e166.
    • Rondina, M. T., et al. (2016). "Non-genomic activities of retinoic acid receptor alpha control actin cytoskeletal events in human platelets." J Thromb Haemost 14(5): 1082-1094.
    • Shih, L., et al. (2016). "Platelet-Monocyte Aggregates and C-Reactive Protein are Associated with VTE in Older Surgical Patients." Sci Rep 6: 27478.
    • Dember, L. M., et al. (2016). "Vascular Function at Baseline in the Hemodialysis Fistula Maturation Study." J Am Heart Assoc 5(7).
    • Stehlik, J., et al. (2016). "Heart, lung, and vascular registries: Evolving goals, successful approaches, and ongoing innovation." J Heart Lung Transplant 35(10): 1149-1157.
    • Huber, T. S., et al. (2016). "Access-related hand ischemia and the Hemodialysis Fistula Maturation Study." J Vasc Surg 64(4): 1050-1058 e1051.
    • Simons, J. P., et al. (2016). "A comparative evaluation of risk-adjustment models for benchmarking amputation-free survival after lower extremity bypass." J Vasc Surg 63(4): 990-997.
    • Suckow, B. D., et al. (2015). "Statin therapy after infrainguinal bypass surgery for critical limb ischemia is associated with improved 5-year survival." J Vasc Surg 61(1): 126-133.
    • Suckow, B. D., et al. (2015). "Domains that Determine Quality of Life in Vascular Amputees." Ann Vasc Surg 29(4): 722-730.
    • Kaplan, D., et al. (2015). "VTE Incidence and Risk Factors in Patients With Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock." Chest 148(5): 1224-1230.
    • Kraiss, L. W., et al. (2015). "Frailty assessment in vascular surgery and its utility in preoperative decision making." Semin Vasc Surg 28(2): 141-147.
    Mark R. Sarfati, MD
    • He, J. J., et al. (2023). High-intensity statin therapy reduces risk of amputation and reintervention among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Journal of vascular surgery, 77(2), 497–505.
    • Hakim, A. J., Brooke, B. S., Beckstrom, J. L., Sarfati, M. R. and Kraiss, L. W. (2022) “Rules of 6 criteria predict dialysis fistula maturation but not all rules are equal.” J Vasc Surg 76(1): 232-238.
    • Gilbertson, E. A., et al. (2021) “Long-Term Impact of Vascular Surgery Stress on Frail Older Patients.” Ann Vasc Surg 70: 9-19.
    • Sarfati, M. R., Griffin, C. L., Kraiss, L. W., Smith, B. K. and Brooke, B. S. (2021) “Vascular surgery triage during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.” J Vasc Surg 73(6): 1858–1868.
    • Chun, T. T., et al. (2020) “Managing central venous access during a health care crisis.” J Vasc Surg 72(4): 1184-1195.
    • Griffin, C. L., et al. (2020) “Aortic disease in the time of COVID-19 and repercussions on patient care at an academic aortic center.” J Vasc Surg 72(2): 408-413.
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2019). "Prognostic implications of diagnosing frailty and sarcopenia in vascular surgery practice." J Vasc Surg 70(3): 892-900. 
    • Donald, G. W., et al. (2018). "Preoperative frailty assessment predicts loss of independence after vascular surgery." J Vasc Surg 68(5): 1382-1389. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., et al. (2018). "Clinical effectiveness of open thrombectomy for thrombosed autogenous arteriovenous fistulas and grafts." J Vasc Surg 68(1): 189-196. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., Griffin, C. L., Kraiss, L. W., Sarfati, M. R. and Brooke, B. S. (2018). "Comparative effectiveness of one-stage versus two-stage basilic vein transposition arteriovenous fistulas." J Vasc Surg 67(2): 529-535 e521. 
    • Ghaffarian, A. A., Brooke, B. S., Rawles, J. and Sarfati, M. (2018). "Repair of a symptomatic true radial artery aneurysm at the anatomic snuff box with interposition great saphenous vein graft." J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech 4(4): 292-295. 
    • Mirabelli, L. G., et al. (2018). "Rapid Methods for Routine Frailty Assessment during Vascular Surgery Clinic Visits." Ann Vasc Surg 46: 134-141. 
    • Brooke, B. S., et al. (2017). "Cardiac Stress Testing during Workup for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Is Not Associated with Improved Patient Outcomes." Ann Vasc Surg 42: 222-230. 
    Cali E. Johnson, MD, EdD
    • Cox, M. L., et al. (2023). Early Findings and Strategies for Successful Implementation of SIMPL Workplace-based Assessments within Vascular Surgery Residency and Fellowship Programs. Journal of vascular surgery, S0741-5214(23)01147-3. Advance online publication
    • Johnson, C. E., & Brooke, B. S. (2023). Preoperative functional performance is the best predictor for loss of independence after major surgery among older adults. Evidence-based nursing, ebnurs-2022-103654. Advance online publication. 
    • Johnson, C. E. and Smith, B. K. (2022) “My Brother's/Sister's Keeper: Collective responsibility for the professional identity of surgeons.” Am J Surg 224: 282-283.
    • Malhotra, N. R., et al. (2021) “High value care education in general surgery residency programs: A multi-institutional needs assessment.” Am J Surg 221(2): 291-297.

    GRANTS

    Coming soon

      PROJECTS

      Explore current studies in vascular surgery.

        Thoraflex Hybrid and Relay Extension Post-Approval Study (EXTEND)

        ClinicalTirals.gov Identifier: NCT05639400
        Study Type: Observational (Patient Registry)
        Current Status: Recruiting
        Utah Principal Investigators: Dr. Jason Glotzbach and Dr. Kaohinani Longwolf

        Brief Summary: This is a prospective registry designed to evaluate the Thoraflex Hybrid device alone and in combination with the RelayPro NBS stent-graft in the treatment of aortic disease affecting the aortic arch and descending aorta with or without involvement of the ascending aorta. 

        Endovascular AAA Intervention Using the GORE EXLUDER Conformable AAA Endoprosthesis or Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06218875
        Study Type: Observational (Patient Registry)
        Current Status: Recruiting

        Brief Summary: This is a prospective, observational post-market registry collecting outcomes through a 10-year post procedure follow-up for patients treated with the GORE EXCLUDER Conformable AAA Endoprosthesis (EXCC Device) or the GORE EXCLUDER Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (IBE Device) as a part of routine clinical practice. 

        Global Registry for Endovascular Aortic Treatment (GREAT)

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01658787 
        Study type: Observational (Patient Registry) 
        Current Status: Active, Not Recruiting 
        Utah Principal Investigator: Benjamin Brooke, MD, PhD

        Brief Summary: This is a prospective observational cohort registry designed to obtain data on device performance and clinical outcomes of patients treated with Gore Endovascular Aortic products.

        IMPRoving Outcomes in Vascular Disease – Aortic Dissection (IMPROVE-AD)

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06087029
        Study Type: Interventional
        Current Status: Recruiting
        Utah Principal Investigator: Benjamin Brooke, MD, PhD

        Brief Summary: This study is for patients with an uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection. There are currently two types of treatment for this condition: Medical management or surgery (an operation known as a TEVAR) combined with medical management. This study seeks to understand which treatment type should be considered the standard of care for patients with this condition. 

        Patients will be randomized 1:1 (50:50) to one of the following groups:

        1. Medical Management: This will consist of a change in lifestyle and addition (or modification) of antihypertensive medications.
        2. Surgery (TEVAR) + Medical Management: Surgery will occur within 48 hours to 6 weeks of diagnosis. You will also be provided with the same change in lifestyle and addition (or modification) of antihypertensive medication.
        JET Enhanced Thrombectomy Intervention Registry (JETi)

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04370691
        Study Type: Observational (Patient Registry)
        Current Status: Recruiting
        Utah Principal Investigator: Benjamin Brooke, MD, PhD

        Brief Summary: This is a prospective registry designed to obtain data on device performance and clinical outcomes of patients treated with the JETi Peripheral Thrombectomy System for the diagnosis of acute/subacute thrombosis in the peripheral vascular system.

        Nectero EAST System Clinical Study (stAAAble)

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06001918
        Study Type: Interventional
        Current Status: Recruiting
        Utah Principal Investigator: Cali Johnson, MD, EdD

        Brief Summary: This study is for patients with small to mid-sized abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). No proven treatment options are currently available for small to mid-sized AAAs; it is recommended to monitor the growth in size of the AAA over time, known as surveillance or "watching and waiting." Once AAA reaches a certain size and/or symptoms change, your vascular surgeon will assess and discuss open surgical repair or the placement of a large tube (graft) inside the AAA to line the aortic vessel.

        Nectero Medical is developing a novel treatment that may slow growth and potentially prevent rupture/bursting of small to mid-sized AAA. The Nectero EAST procedure is performed using sedation. A catheter, a thin, long tube-like device with inflatable balloons at the end, is introduced through a small cut in the groin. Once in the aneurysm, pentagalloyl glucose or PGG mixture, is delivered via holes in the balloon directly into the aneurysmal wall where it acts to strengthen the wall and potentially prevent further weakening. This one-time treatment is expected to have a lasting effect. The entire procedure takes ~1 hour.

        If you qualify for this study, you will be randomly assigned (50:50 chance) to either:

        1. Receive the study treatment. The hospital staff will schedule you for the procedure within 30 days of your recent CT scan.
        2. Be in the non-treatment group. You will not undergo the study treatment, but will be followed for increased evaluation of your AAA
        Surgical Antireflux Venous Valve Endoprosthesis (SAVVE) Study

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04943172 
        Study Type: Interventional (Clinical Trial) 
        Current Status: Closed to new enrollment, follow up ongoing 
        Utah Principal Investigator: Kaohinani Longwolf, MD

        Brief Summary: For subjects with deep venous valvular insufficiency that have active ulcers, a history of ulcers or skin changes on one of their legs. We will implant the VenoValve into the major deep vein of the leg to help improve blood flow in the affected limb.

        Terumo Aortic Global Endovascular Registry (TiGER)

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04246463
        Study Type: Observational (Patient Registry)
        Current Status: Recruiting
        Utah Principal Investigator: Cali Johnson, MD, EdD; and Jason Glotzbach, MD

        Brief Summary: This is a prospective registry designed to obtain safety and performance data on the use of the Terumo Aortic RelayPro Thoracic Stent-Graft system to treat a lesion of the descending thoracic aorta.

        TransCarotid Revascularization Surveillance Project of the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02850588 
        Study type: Observational (Patient Registry) 
        Current Status: Active, Recruiting 
        Utah Principal Investigators: Benjamin Brooke, MD, PhD; Larry Kraiss, MD

        Brief Summary: The TCAR Surveillance Project (TSP) is an initiative of the Society for Vascular Surgery Patient Safety Organization (SVS PSO). The TSP is a surveillance registry designed to monitor the safety and effectiveness of transcarotid stents placed directly in to the carotid artery while reversing blood flow within the carotid artery to reduce stroke risk. It will compare this less-invasive surgical procedure with standard carotid endarterectomy in centers that participate in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI).

        TREO Post Approval Study

        ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04697784 
        Study Type: Interventional (Clinical Trial) 
        Current Status: Closed to new enrollment, follow up ongoing 
        Utah Principal Investigator: Cali Johnson, MD, EdD

        Brief Summary: For subjects who have been diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). This study will be used to determine the long-term performance of the TREO abdominal stent-graft when used to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms.

        Utah Vascular Surgery PROMs & Health Maintenance Application (UStep)

        Study type: Qualitative, Observational 
        Current Status: Active 
        Principal Investigator: Benjamin Brooke, MD, PhD

        Brief Summary: Using the Health Maintenance Application we will track the disease progress and quality of life in patients who have been diagnosed peripheral vascular disease (PVD). 

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