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The History of Best Young Scientist Award

1st Winner | Dr. Nikos Werner

"Catch Me If You Can!": Use of a Protection Device to Prevent Cerebral Embolism in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Nikos Werner, MD (Med. Klinik II, Germany), who presented his TAVI case last year, was presented with the TCTAP Best Young Scientist Award on Thursday in recognition of his accomplishments in interventional cardiology.

Distinguished Career in Cardiology Despite Young Age

His scientific focus is the cellular basis of endothelial cell damage leading to atherosclerotic disease with a focus on bench-to-bedside translation. With TAVR development, his interest shifted towards its scientific evaluation leading to various publications including AR-index in JACC. He is PI in a few interventional studies including TAVR studies, renal denervation, large bore closure devices, and has initiated a number of Investigator-Initiated trials. His future plans are to learn more about valvular disease and its percutaneous treatment options. His focus is to understand the underlying biology (e.g. microRNA project), peri-interventional risk reduction (evaluation of better access site and closure devices), and participating in the development of new aortic and mitral valves.

Interview with Dr. Nikos Werner

Q1) Please comment on your feelings about the award.
I am very honored and proud to receive this prestigious award. My thanks go to all the patients, co-workers, and the great support of our clinical research team back home in Bonn.

Q2) How many TAVI cases do you usually do?
I perform approx. 8-12 TAVI cases per month.

Q3) Do you usually use protection device?
Currently, we use protection devices in specific patients. Especially patients who are at high risk receive TAVI under cerebral protection.

Q4) Which device do you prefer among TAVI devices?
Every valve has its advantages. We will choose the valve according to its specifications that optimally fit for patient.

Q5) What is your favorite topic these days?
How to effectively treat mitral and tricuspid valve disease using interventional, percutaneous approaches.