Cardiovascular Neural Intervention

Neal Duong
BME PhD Candidate
University of Minnesota

Abstract: The cardiovascular nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating heart function, blood flow, and overall circulatory system performance. This presentation provides an in-depth overview of the intricate relationship between the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Key mechanisms such as autonomic control, the role of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and the anatomic structure or the local and peripheral ganglia will be discussed. We will examine how these systems collaborate to maintain homeostasis, respond to stress, and adapt to various physiological conditions. This presentation aims to offer a brief overview in understanding of the cardiovascular nervous system anatomy and control.

Bio: Neal C. Duong is a PhD candidate in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Minnesota, focused on optimizing cardiac pacing through advanced imaging and mapping techniques. His research aims to characterize the human cardiac conduction system using contrast-enhanced micro-CT and diffusion tensor MRI (DTMRI) and to develop electrical assessment methods for assessment of anatomical reconstructions of the conduction system influence pacing outcomes, particularly in areas like Bachmann’s bundle and the left bundle branch.

David Benditt, MD, FACC, FRCP(C), FHRS, FESC
University of Minnesota

David G. Benditt, M.D. is Professor of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, USA. He earned both a B.Sc EE (1968) and an MD degree (1972) from the University of Manitoba, Canada and then completed cardiology and cardiac electrophysiology fellowship at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. He joined the University of Minnesota in 1978 and founded the Cardiac Arrhythmia and Syncope Center. Dr Benditt has been an Established Investigator of the American Heart Association and President of the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS). In 2007 he received the HRS Pioneer in Pacing and Electrophysiology Award. His principal research is the evaluation of syncope and related autonomic disturbances.

Scott Stanslaski
Sr. Distinguished Engineer
Medtronic

Abstract: Closed Loop Neuromodulation is a growing field in many disease states including Parkinson's disease and cardiac applications. We will present some of the latest implantable device capabilities in this closed loop neuromodulation space.

Bio: I am a Sr. Distinguished Engineer at Medtronic.  I'm in my 30th year at Medtronic working on implantable device design across cardiac and neuromodulation devices.

Tori Schrimpf, B.S. of Electrical Engineering
Scientist II
Medtronic

Abstract: This talk explores the potential of neural stimulation as a therapeutic approach for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing. We will discuss the underlying pathophysiology of POTS and examine how targeted neural stimulation may modulate autonomic nervous system activity to alleviate symptoms. The presentation will cover current clinical trials and emerging devices, highlighting recent advancements and their implications for improving patient outcomes and quality of life for those affected by POTS.

Bio: Tori Schrimpf is a Research Scientist in the Cardiac Pacing Therapies R&T group at Medtronic. Her research focuses on using neurostimulation to enhance cardiac pacing outcomes. Prior to her current role, she worked as an Embedded Systems Engineer, focusing on the design of cardiac rhythm devices, also at Medtronic.

Ping Yang, PhD, FHRS
Sr. Distinguished Scientist
Bakken Fellow, Technical Fellow
Cardiac Implantable Research and Technology
Medtronic

Senior Distinguished Scientist  and Bakken fellow at Medtronic 2000-
Research Assistant Professor, Duke University, 1998-2000
PhD in biomedical Science, Free University of Brussels, Belgium, 1993-1995