Research Spolight: How Dr. Brian Li is Advancing Cardiac Intervention at RVH

September 30, 2025

Meet Dr. Brian Li, a trailblazing interventional cardiologist at RVH delivering world-class cardiac care  by combining the problem-solving mindset of an engineer with the clinical expertise and compassion of a physician.

Dr. Li began his journey in  Systems Design Engineering at the University of Waterloo. During this time, he came to see that the most impactful clinical ideas often begin at the bedside, where problems are deeply felt and urgently need solving. That realization inspired him to pursue a career in medicine at the University of Toronto and a fellowship in interventional cardiology at Stanford University, bringing him closer to the clinical challenges he was driven to address.

He then worked at the Cleveland Clinic, where he led the development of a cutting-edge procedure to treat patients with completely blocked heart arteries, known as chronic total occlusions. Traditionally, this procedure relies on two-dimensional X-ray fluoroscopy to guide a tiny wire through the artery to unblock it. However, because arteries are three-dimensional, it is difficult to determine the wire’s exact location, limiting the procedure’s accuracy and safety.

To overcome this challenge, Dr. Li adapted an advanced technique originally developed in Japan, using tools already approved and widely available in Canada. By leveraging high-definition intravascular imaging ultrasound, Dr. Li recreated the method in a way that allows the tiny wire to be seen from inside the artery, adding a critical third dimension of procedural guidance.

“This is more than a technical achievement, it’s about improving safety, reducing complications, and offering more precise care to patients,” says Dr. Li. “By pairing state-of-the-art imaging with thoughtful technique, we can change outcomes for people facing complex cardiovascular disease.” 

Now at RVH, Dr. Li is working alongside a highly skilled team and applying his unique expertise to expand the capabilities of the Cardiac Intervention Unit. Together, they’re bringing advanced, innovative interventions closer to home, ensuring patients across our region have access to safer, more effective treatments. 

RVH is proud to be home to experts like Dr. Li, whose curiosity, clinical skills, compassion, and dedication to excellence are shaping the future of cardiovascular care.

For more details on Dr.Li innovative procedure please refer to his recently published case report:https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccas.2024.103179