On 22–23 August 2024, Almazov Centre hosted a unique workshop with the participation of the Centre’s surgical team led by Dr. Mikhail Chernyavsky, Head of Research Department of Vascular and Interventional Surgery, and leading vascular surgeons from China. The Chinese delegation, led by Professor Zhao Liu (Chief Physician of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital) and Professor Zhaohui Hua (Associate Chief Physician of First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University), together with colleagues from Almazov Center, performed a series of procedures on endovascular repair for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
The innovative procedure is designed to eliminate the aneurysmally dilated portion of the aorta from blood circulation while maintaining uninterrupted blood flow through vital arteries supplying internal organs. This is achieved by implanting stent grafts into the affected area, which prevents further dilatation and rupture of the aorta. The unique method presented at the workshop enables the reproduction of stent graft implantation in sterile conditions in a pre-printed sterile polymer 3D model, based on the patient's MSCT aortography data. Furthermore, the pre-processing of the procedure on the obtained model significantly reduces the intervention time, fluoroscopy time and the volume of contrast agent. The more precise positioning of the stent graft in anatomically complex aneurysms (involvement of visceral branches, neck angulation, tortuosity, wall calcinosis and thrombosis) will avoid the risk of stent graft migration with further complications.
The international team of vascular surgeons displayed the highest standards of professionalism and expertise. From the cutting-edge hybrid operating room at Almazov Centre, equipped with the latest technology, the surgical procedure was broadcast live with commentary from renowned medical experts and colleagues from China.
Specialists from China also met with Dr. Dmitry Ovchinnikov, Chief of the University Clinic, to discuss potential avenues for continued clinical and scientific collaboration, including the possibility of joint clinical research and international internships for specialists to gain expertise in new technologies. Colleagues from China expressed high praise for the Centre’s facilities and the exceptional practical training provided to vascular surgeons.
Regular international workshops held at Almazov Centre facilitate the professional development of vascular surgeons by enabling them to enhance their competence and knowledge through direct exchange of experience with foreign colleagues. This provides a comprehensive understanding of the treatment of aortic aneurysms, equipping surgeons with the ability to perform intricate incision-free intravascular manipulations. This is the rationale behind the assertion that endovascular surgery represents the future of surgery. The collaboration with international partners, spearheaded by Dr. Mikhail Chernyavsky, Head of Research Department of Vascular and Interventional Surgery, with the support of Evgeny Shlyakhto, Director General of Almazov Centre, ensures the Vascular Surgery Clinic maintains its high standards of professionalism.