The research in interventional cardiology focuses on improving outcomes of patients treated for acute coronary syndromes. This includes the use of novel interventional devices, the assessment of new medication during and after procedures. We have established tools to measure the response of the body to an acute myocardial infarction, and to assess the extent of the cell necrosis caused by ischaemia acutely and in the chronic phase. Our interest lies in minimising the size of the heart attack and also minimising the side effects of medication used adjunctively during acute procedures.

In the field of percutaneous valve implantation, I lead the pivotal trial on embolic protection during transcatheter aortic valve implantation. This technology might help to reduce the reate of stroke and subclinical cerebral infarcts during the procedure.

Another field of major interest is the manipulation of the autonomous nervous system. One method is already in clinical practice: catheter based renal denervation for resistant hypertension. As part of the Bristol Neurocardiovascular network we participate in studies that aim to identify the mechanisms leading to a successful reduction of high blood pressure. Further techniques to improve the effectiveness are in development.