Running Against Ruptures IMPAC T REPORT 2019 Dr. Tamie Poepping, Associate Professor, Physics & Astronomy, Western University, with collaborator Dr. Mel Boulton, LHSC Neurosurgeon and Associate Professor, Western University THANK YOU Your support through Running Against Ruptures is helping London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) collaborate with Western University to pursue novel research into brain aneurysms. A 3D-printed model of a major brain aneurysm. The large, blistered portion is the inflated blood vessel (aneurysm) that could go on to rupture Aneurysm research is currently a field with many unknowns. A new project has the potential to shed light on determining which aneurysms are likely to go on to rupture, which will guide those patients’ surgical plans and lead to better outcomes. This research can be fast-tracked with support like yours through Running Against Ruptures. In 2018, your event raised $21,856 for both London Health Sciences Centre and the Brain Aneurysm Foundation. It was such a memorable day at Greenway Park, and we’re looking forward to the next event in 2020! 747 Base Line Rd. E. London, ON N6C 2R6 | T. 519.685.8409 | [email protected] An update from Dr. Mel Boulton Neurosurgeon and Research Scientist A few years ago, a patient was in my clinic one day asking about support groups for loved ones of patients who suffered from ruptures. In doing my research, I came across the Running Against Ruptures page, and I’m so happy I did. I reached out to Race Director Cindy Ivanitz, whose father, Bob Wood, tragically passed away from a ruptured brain aneurysm. Cindy was pivotal in helping our team at LHSC get involved. The benefit of the run is twofold: it serves as a support group in itself by bringing together caring people who have been touched by aneurysms in some way, and it raises much-needed research funding. Our collaborative research project shows great promise for the future of patients with brain aneurysms, and you’ll be able to read more about it on the next page. Dr. Tamie Poepping’s work has been instrumental for this project. Thank you again for your dedication to brain aneurysm research. See you at the next run in 2020! Sincerely, Dr. Mel Boulton, MD, PhD, FRCSC Neurosurgeon, LHSC 747 Base Line Rd. E. London, ON N6C 2R6 | T. 519.685.8409 | [email protected] Your Impact on Brain Aneurysm Research There are currently two surgical methods for treating brain aneurysms. The first is open surgery through the skull bone, in which the surgeon places a clip to seal off the aneurysm blister. The second is a more minimally invasive procedure where small coils are guided through the patient’s blood vessels into the brain. These coils then pack the aneurysm so that it won’t rupture. Other minimally invasive devices include stents The Study to divert blood flow away from the aneurysm. Dr. Boulton is collaborating with Dr. Tamie 1 in 6 brain aneurysms Poepping, an Associate Professor of Physics will rupture at Western University, to develop simulated models (both physical and computer models) of patient aneurysms. By testing 50% likelihood of surviving a ruptured aneurysm variables such as blood flow and pressure through a specific aneurysm, this research will help determine which physical Both of these procedures carry risk. With parameters lead to an aneurysm rupturing. the open surgery, there is a 20% risk of complications. With the endovascular technique, Imagine if you were being fitted for braces the risk ranges between 10-15%. Because on your teeth. The orthodontist would take of this, researchers want to better determine a mold of your teeth before outfitting them which aneurysms will go on to rupture, so that in metal. This same concept could soon be treatment (if required) is planned accordingly. applied to the treatment of aneurysms. The ultimate goal is to create a model of each patient’s aneurysm and then run the simulated tests within a day or two to determine if it will go on to rupture. If likelihood of rupture is high, those patients will be immediately scheduled for surgery. If, however, those aneurysms won’t rupture, then the patient will be monitored and will be able to avoid surgery and its potential complications. Dr. Poepping and Dr. Boulton observing the simulated aneurysm model in the Physics & Astronomy department at Western University. They can swap out different aneurysm models to test flow, pressure, and other measures. 747 Base Line Rd. E. London, ON N6C 2R6 | T. 519.685.8409 | [email protected] Future Plans for Brain Aneurysm Research Additional funding will help bring a full-time graduate student into the project to help expedite this work. Donations from Running Against Ruptures will be critical to moving forward this life-saving research. Closeup of the aneurysm model “ Full-time dedication leads to impactful results. Donor support can help us devote more resources to this Thank you again! worthwhile project. Dr. Mel Boulton “ For more information about this research, our foundation or hospital, please contact: “ Having one full-time student Justin Tiseo Development Officer who is really passionate London Health Sciences Foundation will advance our work 519.685.8717 immensely in a much [email protected] quicker time. Dr. Tamie Poepping “ LHSF.CA 747 Base Line Rd. E. London, ON N6C 2R6 | T. 519.685.8409 | [email protected]
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