Nimesh D. Desai, MD, PhD

I co-direct the Penn Aorta Center, where we provide comprehensive care in a new way. Rather than just manage the challenge in front of us, we deliver a lifetime of support.

In my practice, I specialize in aortic valve procedures, including transcatheter and minimally invasive replacements and complex surgical repairs. I also perform valve-sparing aortic root replacements, aortic aneurysm repairs, and the Ross procedure. I’ve completed more than 4,000 heart procedures — 2,500 of them involving heart valves.

My research focuses on improving procedures for the aorta and aortic valve. I run clinical trials testing new therapies and technologies aimed at making treatment more effective and easier to undergo. And I lead aortic groups for the Society of Thoracic Surgeons overseeing data collection and monitoring surgical risk.

I became interested in heart surgery as a child. Years later, I completed a fellowship at Penn in aortic and endovascular surgery. It’s always satisfying to come up with a solution that restores quality of life when someone arrives with a complex challenge. For that to happen, I listen to each person’s needs and wishes and work with our team to find the best recommendation.