Dr. Naoki Kaneko, associate professor in the division of interventional neuroradiology at the David Geffen School of Medicine, was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF) for his research focusing on developing a new device for treating complex, giant brain aneurysms.
His project, "Hemodynamic Optimization of a Fenestratable Membrane Flow Diverter for Complex Giant Brain Aneurysms," is testing a new device that could improve treatment for giant brain aneurysms located where blood vessels branch. These aneurysms are difficult to treat because doctors must close off the aneurysm while preserving blood flow to nearby arteries. Dr. Kaneko’s team will use realistic aneurysm models to find the best way to use the device with the goal of developing a safer, longer-lasting treatment option for patients with these complex aneurysms.
“I come from a family with a history of cerebrovascular disease, including a relative who died suddenly from a ruptured brain aneurysm. That experience motivated me to pursue a career as a neuroendovascular physician,” said Kaneko. “Although current devices have made most brain aneurysms treatable, some remain a persistent challenge, including giant aneurysms involving multiple branch arteries. My research aims to close this gap through the development of new devices and techniques for patients who still need better treatment options.”
As a neurointerventionalist, Kaneko treats patients with brain aneurysms and leads a translational research program focused on developing next-generation neurovascular devices using patient-specific 3D-printed aneurysm models. His work bridges the angiography suite and the laboratory, with the goal of translating unmet clinical needs into safer and more effective treatments for complex aneurysms.
