SUMMARY
In the United States alone, there are over 900,000 cases a year of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in hospitalized patients. Collectively, these complications are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Trauma patients are especially at high risk of developing these complications.
Myung S. Park, M.D., is a clinician engaged in research and conducts case-cohort studies that utilize the Rochester Epidemiology Project and the Mayo Clinic Center for Clinical and Translational Science to study the effects of patients' comorbidities and injury pattern to predict VTE. Additionally, in her laboratory, Dr. Park focuses on evaluating a variety of biomarkers, which may help predict patients who may go on to develop these complications during hospitalization and after discharge.
Dr. Park receives research funding from the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health.
Focus areas
- Standardization of coagulation assays to facilitate translation of assays from bench top to bedside
- Mechanisms underlying the development of venous thromboembolism after trauma and surgery
- Translation of laboratory coagulation assays to help predict venous thromboembolism in trauma patients
- Optimal methods of resuscitation in bleeding patients
Significance to patient care
Since joining Mayo Clinic in 2008, Dr. Park has worked to develop a basic science research program within the Trauma Center that addresses the needs of this patient population. Because of acute and immediate needs of trauma patients, coordinating research with clinical care to involve trauma patients as research participants requires a paradigmatic shift in every stage of their care. Dr. Park's ultimate research goal is to reduce mortality and morbidity for trauma patients in both military and civilian populations.
Professional highlights
- Director, Clinical Research and Trials Unit, Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS), Mayo Clinic, 2023-present.
- Journal reviewer.
- PLOS ONE, 2014-present.
- Journal of Critical Care, 2013-present.
- World Journal of Surgery, 2011-present.
- Surgery, 2010-present.
- Burns, 2006-2008.
- Associate medical director, basic science research, Mayo Clinic Trauma Center, 2012-present.
- Member, Surgery Peer-Review Research Committee, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 2008-2012.
- Commendation Medal, U.S. Air Force, 2007.
- Director and burn consultant, Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Balad Air Force Theatre Hospital, Iraq, 2006.