A patient-led innovation that redefined aortic care
Engineer and patient Tal Golesworthy, who lives with Marfan syndrome, saw a need for a safer, more personalised alternative to major aortic surgery. His idea became the foundation for what is now the ExoVasc® implant.
For a decade, Tal’s aorta had been monitored through regular scans. When doctors recommended open-heart surgery to reduce his risk of dissection, he began searching for a different way.
Traditional options such as a Bentall or a valve-sparing operation involved major surgery and some required lifelong anticoagulant medication. Tal believed there had to be a better solution.
Drawing on his engineering background, Tal began developing a new concept, an external support that could reinforce the aorta without replacing it.
Our Journey
Tal attends a Marfan Association UK Information Day to listen to a presentation by Professor Tom Treasure on aortic surgery. At the end of the presentation, Tal engages Professor Treasure in discussions on an alternative approach and the idea to externally support the aortic root arose.
Professor John Pepper joins the project, Tal raises finance and Tal and engineers at Imperial College start work.
The Local Research & Ethics Committee at the Royal Brompton Hospital gives approval for a clinical trial.
In May, Professor Pepper implants the first ExoVasc® PEARS in Tal, who is the first patient to receive the implant.
After successful implantation of the ExoVasc® PEARS in 19 patients, the Clinical Practice Committee at the Royal Brompton Hospital approves the device for use in the treatment of suitable patients with a dilated aorta due to Marfan syndrome.
Following a consultation process, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence issues guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on External aortic root support in Marfan syndrome. This guidance was updated in May 2022.
The ExoVasc® PEARS reaches the 100 patient milestone.
The first Ross-PEARS procedure takes place.
The ExoVasc® PEARS reaches the 200 patient milestone.
The ExoVasc® PEARS reaches the 1,000 patient milestone.
Today, ExoVasc® has been adopted by over 40 surgical centres worldwide, with more than 1,500 patients treated. Each case represents the same vision that began with one engineer, one idea, and one pioneering device.
