How blood vessel properties affect anesthesia-related low blood pressure in very young and older patients

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons why very young patients (like infants) and older adults are more likely to experience low blood pressure during anesthesia. By using both laboratory and animal studies, the researchers aim to uncover the unique characteristics of blood vessels in these age groups that contribute to this problem. Understanding these mechanisms could help improve anesthesia safety and outcomes for vulnerable populations. The findings could lead to better strategies for managing blood pressure during surgeries.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Johns Hopkins University
  Baltimore, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Whitaker, Emmett E — Johns Hopkins University
• Study coordinator: Whitaker, Emmett E

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Vascular Triggers of Anesthesia-Related Low Blood Pressure in the Old and Very Young

  This NIH grant explores why people at the youngest and oldest ages are more likely to have dangerously low blood pressure during general anesthesia and how to prevent it.

  NIH research Johns Hopkins University · Baltimore, United States · NIH-11360616

• Nighttime CPAP to lower high blood pressure when lying down and reduce daytime dizziness

  This work uses nighttime CPAP for people with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension and supine hypertension to lower blood pressure while lying down and help reduce nighttime urination and daytime lightheadedness.

  NIH research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · Nashville, United States · NIH-11241120

• Understanding Blood Pressure Drops During Anesthesia in Very Young and Older Patients

  This work explores why very young children and older adults often experience low blood pressure during surgery and how their blood vessels play a role.

  NIH research Johns Hopkins University · Baltimore, United States · NIH-11117114

• Using positive airway pressure to manage blood pressure issues in older adults

  This study is looking at how using a CPAP machine, which helps with breathing during sleep, might lower high blood pressure that some older adults experience when lying down, and it hopes to make them feel better when they stand up during the day.

  NIH research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · Nashville, United States · NIH-10986079

• Wearable device to monitor blood pressure after surgery

  This study is testing a comfortable wearable device that keeps an eye on your blood pressure after surgery, helping to quickly alert caregivers if it drops too low, so you can stay safe and recover better.

  NIH research Vena Vitals, INC. · Irvine, United States · NIH-10760370

• A device to help manage low blood pressure when standing in older adults

  This study is testing a special belt that helps older adults with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, a condition that makes them feel dizzy or faint when they stand up, by giving gentle support to improve their blood flow and keep their blood pressure steady.

  NIH research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · Nashville, United States · NIH-10753526

About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.