Updated
Updated · WMTV · Jul 13
UW-Madison Researchers Probe 2 Aortic Dissection Risk Factors After Graham's Death
Updated
Updated · WMTV · Jul 13

UW-Madison Researchers Probe 2 Aortic Dissection Risk Factors After Graham's Death

2 articles · Updated · WMTV · Jul 13

Summary

  • Early findings indicate Sen. Lindsey Graham died from an aortic dissection, a life-threatening tear in the body’s main artery that can cut off blood flow to vital organs.
  • UW-Madison researchers are using tissue samples, mouse models, radiology and biology to identify patients at risk before a dissection occurs and to guide earlier intervention.
  • Dr. Paul DiMusto said many patients show no symptoms until the event happens, making screening tools and minimally invasive treatments a central focus of the UW Health Aortic Center.
  • Two controllable risk factors have already been identified—smoking and high blood pressure—as the center says it is among only a few U.S. programs studying the disease at this scope.

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