Steven J. Fishman

The goals of Dr. Fishman's research include: To effect permanent luminal obliteration of vascular malformations using tissue engineering and angiogenesis inhibition to enhance existing intravascular therapies. To clarify the subtypes of pediatric liver hemangiomas, predict their natural history, and optimize their management. 

 To develop mechanisms to enlarge short segments of esophagus and intestine. The translational implications of Dr. Fishman's work: Vascular malformations can often be controlled or nearly obliterated with intravascular sclerotherapy or embolization of the luminal spaces. However, recanalization and clinical recurrence are commonplace. We hope to make luminal obliteration permanent, eliminating the need for repeated procedures and deforming surgical procedures. Liver hemangiomas, previously believed to be homogeneous, occur in several types and patterns. 

Clarifying their phenotypes and behaviors will facilitate improved survival and avoid needless morbidity. Infants born with esophageal atresia have a disrupted, often very short esophagus. When the two ends cannot be brought together, the esophagus is often surgically replaced with other, less adequate organs. Facilitating growth of the shortened esophagus may allow the native esophageal tissues to be connected, eliminating the need for replacement with colon or stomach.