Connective Issues Winter 2025

 The Koehn family prior to surgery

 Jameson's ultrasound with device in place

 Jameson leaving the hospital

US Family Finds Success with PEARS Procedure

“Going to London for PEARS wasn't a choice – it was a definite,” said Maria whose son Jameson had the procedure in fall 2024. “For us, it seemed like the only smart option for him.” After much research, Maria and husband Jason made the trip from North Dakota to London to get the PEARS procedure for Jameson, age 5, who has early-onset Marfan syndrome. They chose PEARS because it would reduce the need for a repeat procedure, a valve replacement, and life-long blood thinners. According to his parents, Jameson is the second youngest to have the PEARS procedure which was performed at Evelina Children's Hospital in London by Dr. Conal Austin. “We saw PEARS as a one and done with the added benefit of him not needing to go on bypass,” she said. “Upon my many months of research into this topic, I found Dr. Austin to be the most experienced man on the planet when it comes to PEARS procedures.” According to Maria, the surgery was a success and the aftercare was minimal. The family stayed in London until they were cleared to fly. Jameson was unable to attend school until his breastbone was completely healed, approximately six weeks after surgery. Once they returned home, they were instructed to see his regular cardiologist within two weeks who determined Jameson should be seen every three months for ongoing care. The family considers the outcome to be “amazing.” In November, his dilation was 3.2cm, down from 3.8cm prior to the surgery, and he returned to school without restrictions. “Experiencing another country’s healthcare system was di ff erent but overall great and e ffi cient,” said Maria. “What made it so great was all the people we were lucky enough to meet and get to know. It was terribly hard to leave all of them, but we are truly grateful.”

 3D model used to make Jameson’s ExoVasc® PEARS

SCAN TO WATCH HIS TEDTALK, HOWI REPAIRED MY HEART , WHICH HAS NEARLY 1.5 MILLION VIEWS.

“I have Marfan syndrome. I didn’t like the treatment options provided to me, so I created the PEARS project and implant along with colleague Tom Treasure, and became patient No. 1.” ~Tal Golesworthy

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Winter 2025