In this pilot clinical trial, the investigators will test whether a carefully supervised ketogenic diet can safely help people with Marfan syndrome who already have a chronic or residual aortic dissection. Fifteen participants will work with a study coordinator and dietitian to learn how to follow the diet and will have regular guidance and check-ins. The participants will measure their blood ketone levels at home with a simple finger-stick device and relay their readings to the research team. Every three months, blood samples will also be collected to confirm the body's level of ketosis.
Participants will continue their usual heart and blood-pressure medicines and regular visits with their doctors. Standard of care computed tomography (CT) scans of the aorta will be performed at the start of the study and then again at 6 and 12 months to see if the aorta changes in size.
The main goal is to see how many patients can avoid needing aortic surgery within one year, compared with what is normally expected from past studies. The investigators will also track how well patients follow the diet, how their aorta changes, and whether inflammation in their blood decreases.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 50 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. Adults between 18 and 50 years old.
. Ability to understand and willingness to sign an Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved written informed consent document.
. Genetically or clinically confirmed Marfan syndrome
. Chronic descending thoracic aortic dissection present for at least three months
. Maximal descending thoracic aortic diameter must measure between 4.0 and 5.0 cm at baseline on contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography (CTA)
. Have been clinically stable and consistent antihypertensive regimen for at least four weeks
Exclusion criteria
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.