Dr. med. Anna Sannino Ph.D

Echocardiographic diagnostics

As a passionate physician and scientist, I dedicate my research to cardiac medicine, in particular imaging of the heart. I am particularly interested in diseases of the heart valves (VHD).

Much of my expertise is based on my work with echocardiography, an ultrasound method for visualizing the heart. At the prestigious Baylor Scott & White Research Institute (BSWRI) in Texas, USA, I served as medical director of the core cardiac imaging laboratory. There I gained extensive experience in the echocardiographic evaluation of new devices for the treatment of valvular heart disease. During this time, I was able to establish valuable contacts with various partners from industry. I work closely with them to evaluate new devices to improve the treatment of heart disease.

Due to my numerous publications on valvular heart disease, I was accepted into the American Society of Echocardiography in 2019. I am also involved in the editorial team of the official scientific journal "Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography". Since September 2020, I have also been a core member of the Council on Valvular Heart Disease of the European Society of Cardiology.

In 2023, I took on the responsible position of Deputy Director of the Working Group on Valvular Heart Disease (VHD) of the Italian Society of Cardiology. This newly established working group in Italy specializes in deepening our knowledge of valvular heart disease.
Through my international experience, especially in the USA and Germany, I have been able to broaden my understanding of valvular heart disease. In particular, I have gained deep insights into aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the aortic valve that impairs blood flow from the heart. These years have also enabled me to network and exchange ideas with national and international specialist societies.

I am convinced that, as a young doctor, I can make a valuable contribution to the Friede Springer Center for Cardiovascular Prevention with my knowledge and experience. My aim is to detect heart valve diseases at an early stage and thus optimize treatment for those affected.