Understanding Blood Pressure Drops During Anesthesia in Very Young and Older Patients
Vascular Determinants of Anesthesia-Induced Hypotension at the Extremes of Age
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.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117114 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Millions of patients, especially infants and older adults, face a higher risk of low blood pressure during surgery, which can lead to serious health issues. Our goal is to understand the specific reasons why this happens in these vulnerable age groups. We are looking closely at the unique characteristics of their blood vessels to see how they contribute to these blood pressure changes. By uncovering these underlying mechanisms, we hope to find better ways to keep blood pressure stable during anesthesia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding issues relevant to neonates, infants, and adults over 70 years old undergoing general anesthesia.
Not a fit: Patients outside of the very young or older adult age groups may not directly benefit from the specific findings of this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to improved strategies for preventing and managing low blood pressure during surgery, enhancing safety for vulnerable patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the problem of intraoperative hypotension is recognized, the specific mechanisms underlying its increased risk in these age extremes are not fully clear, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitaker, Emmett E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Whitaker, Emmett E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.