New Research on Transparent “Windows to the Brain” Implant
Research Positively Impacting Patient Care
Wausau, WI – Yasaman Damestani, B.S., a graduate of the University of California, is a recipient of an American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. (ASLMS) 2013 Research Grant.
Damestani conducted research on the transparent “windows to the brain” implant. Her manuscript was titled “Transparent Cranial Implant for Laser Based Therapy and Imaging of Brain”.
In her research, Damestani discovered that a “windows to the brain” implant would allow use of emerging laser treatments and imaging for brain pathologies, such as brain tumors and traumatic brain injuries without having to remove a portion of a patient’s skull repeatedly.
Damestani explained, “The implant is made from Yttria Stabilized Zirconia, a tough, traditionally opaque ceramic used in dental crown, processed with high pressure and temperature to make it transparent. The ASLMS student grants facilitated the evaluation of long term biocompatibility of the implant in animal models, an essential step for clinical translation of a "windows to the brain" implant.”
Damestani said, “The ASLMS grant allowed me to take an essential step in the enhancement of my research towards having a direct and timely implication for improving patient care. Research performed with this grant will improve patient care through the development of a transparent ceramic implant that allows for noninvasive optical therapy and imaging of brain,” said Damestani.
Supporting ASLMS member Guillermo Aguilar, Ph.D., M.S., who helped oversee the research commented, “The ASLMS student grant has facilitated the evaluation of long term biocompatibility of this implant in animal models, an essential step for clinical translation. The ASLMS grant allowed Yasaman to take an initial step in her goal of conducting research that, ultimately, positively impacts patient care.”
Dr. Aguilar has received research funding from numerous sources, including a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-K01 award to conduct studies related to the application of cryogen sprays in dermatology, particularly for the laser therapy of port wine stain birthmarks.
“It has been a pleasure to support Yasaman’s work during this time. She is a self-motivated student with plenty of original ideas. Much of the success of this project thus far is due to her drive, leadership and perseverance. I’m proud to be her advisor and to assist her in achieving her goals,” said Dr. Aguilar.
Since 2007, ASLMS has awarded $1.4 million for research projects. These projects are designed to advance the development and use of lasers and other associated technologies in medical and surgical applications.
The grants were funded by net proceeds received from the silent auction held at the 2012 Annual Conference, Industry Advisory Council memberships and member research contributions.
To learn more about these research grant opportunities or to apply visit www.aslms.org/grants/grants.shtml for details.
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The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. (ASLMS) is the world's largest scientific organization dedicated to promoting research, education and high standards of clinical care in the field of medical laser applications. It provides a forum for the exchange of scientific information and participates in communicating the latest developments in laser medicine and surgery to clinicians, research investigators, government and regulatory agencies, and the public.
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