Pulmonary vascular disease affects the blood vessels between the heart and the lungs. This can make breathing difficult and affect your ability to have an active, healthy life.
UC San Diego Health is a worldwide leader in the diagnosis, treatment and research of pulmonary vascular disease, including pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary embolism.
Led by
Nick Kim, MD, our pulmonary vascular disease program includes experts from pulmonary and cardiovascular services and emphasizes leading-edge treatments in
pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and
chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
Designated a Center of Excellence by the
American College of Chest Physicians, we have the highest success rate worldwide for pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) surgery, a complex surgery used to treat CTEPH.
We also offer balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) as a groundbreaking treatment for CTEPH.
More details about CTEPH, PTE and BPA
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
Our physician-scientists are involved in the clinical development of all FDA-approved therapies for
pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Patients at UC San Diego have access to the latest treatments available.
Pulmonary Embolism & Deep Vein Thrombosis (PE/DVT)
PE/DVT refers to blood clots in the legs and lungs, and is the
third most common cause of death from cardiovascular disease after heart attack and stroke. Our team participates in registry studies to gain a richer understanding of the disease progression and effectiveness of therapies.