Clinical Research in Anesthesiology

Overview

Clinical trials and patient safety research are central to our mission, with teams leading innovative, multicenter studies designed to improve patient care and outcomes. Studies ranging from randomized clinical trials to observational and outcomes-based research address important questions in pain management, perioperative brain health, cardiovascular and pulmonary optimization, and anesthetic techniques. Through rigorous trial design and quality improvement initiatives, we aim to advance monitoring technologies, reduce complications, and establish best practices.

Research Focus Areas

Pain

Investigators in the MGB Department of Anesthesiology are advancing our understanding of both acute and chronic pain. This work supports the development of novel, non-opioid therapeutics and more precise, patient-centered approaches to pain management.

Neuroscience

Neuroscience research in our department focuses on understanding fundamental mechanisms underlying consciousness, sleep, and cognitive recovery after general anesthesia, with the goal of improving perioperative brain health. Investigators study the neural dynamics of anesthetic-induced unconsciousness using advanced tools such as high-density electroencephalography (EEG) and computational modeling to characterize brain states during anesthetic induction, maintenance, and emergence. Complementary work explores how sleep, circadian rhythms, and aging influence cognitive vulnerability, including the risk of postoperative delirium and long-term cognitive decline.

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular research in our department focuses on improving outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease. Investigators study physiologic responses to anesthetics and surgery in high-risk populations, advancing strategies for hemodynamic monitoring, myocardial protection, and perioperative risk stratification. This work spans basic and translational science—examining mechanisms of ischemia-reperfusion injury, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction—as well as clinical research aimed at optimizing perioperative care.

Pulmonary and Critical Care

Pulmonary and critical care research in our department focuses on elucidating fundamental mechanisms that underlie central problems in intensive care medicine, including sepsis, acute respiratory failure, and pulmonary hypertension with associated cardiac dysfunction. Our goal is to develop novel treatment strategies that improve outcomes for critically ill patients.

Engineering

Engineering-driven research focuses on developing innovative technologies to enhance patient monitoring and safety. Collaborating closely with bioengineers, data scientists, and industry partners, investigators design and test novel sensors, medical devices, and decision-support tools that provide real-time insights into patient physiology. This work includes advances in noninvasive monitoring, closed-loop anesthetic delivery systems, and wearable technologies, with the integration of engineering principles to improve precision and responsiveness in the clinical setting. By bridging engineering and medicine, our department is driving the development of next-generation solutions that will transform perioperative patient care.

Global Health

Our work in global health and health equity seeks to expand access to safe anesthesia care and address disparities both locally and worldwide, particularly for pregnant and critically ill patients. Through partnerships, implementation science, and community-engaged research, we are committed to developing sustainable solutions that improve outcomes for patients around the world.