Overview
I am interested in understanding the complex interplay between the autonomic nervous system, pain mechanisms, and psychological factors, especially stress and depression. My research currently explores arterial baroreflexes' role in postoperative pain and inflammation.
- M.D., University of Zulia, Maracaibo 2001
- Ph.D., University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 1991
- M.B.B.S., University of Zulia, Maracaibo 1983
Recent Publications
Dynamic Perioperative Changes in Baroreflex Sensitivity Predict Postoperative Pain.
Journal Article Pain Med · October 23, 2025 OBJECTIVE: Although higher baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) is typically associated with reduced pain sensitivity, we previously reported that elevated preoperative BRS predicted greater postoperative pain after cardiothoracic surgery, a finding that challenge ... Full text Link to item CiteNoninvasive assessment of temporal dynamics in sympathetic and parasympathetic baroreflex responses.
Journal Article Physiol Meas · March 27, 2025 Objective.The baroreflex maintains cardiovascular stability by modulating heart rate, myocardial contraction, and vascular tone. However, noninvasive assessment of its sympathetic vascular and myocardial branches often overlooks their time-dependent interp ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Role of Preoperative Baroreflex Sensitivity on Persistent Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption after Thoracic Surgery
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2019 - 2022View All Grants