been a period of dynamic change in the delivery of cardiovascular care in our region, and the phenomenal growth of the Vanderbilt Heart and Vascular Institute has been at the center of the stage."
–Henry Jennings III, M.D.
Interventional Cardiology
Clinical Trials
Vanderbilt Heart is dedicated to involvement in clinical research. Many patients are referred to Vanderbilt Medical Center each year for participation in clinical trials concerning new treatments for heart disease. The Vanderbilt Committee for Protection of Human Subjects of the Institutional Review Board ensures the safety of all individuals enrolled in clinical trials at Vanderbilt Heart. Members of this committee are representatives from the community, physicians and lay persons. Participation in a clinical trial is voluntary and participants may withdraw from the study at any time.
Trials include a detailed "informed consent". This ensures that patients not only understand the key facts about a trial from the beginning, but are also informed on facts that develop during the course of the trial.
No matter what course patients take, Vanderbilt Heart always respects and supports their decision.
Patients choose clinical trials for various reasons. Some participate because they and their doctor believe it offers them the best hope. Some do so with the desire to help other patients and improve cancer care. The reasons may vary, but the most important thing is that it is the patient's choice, and that the patient is comfortable with their decision.
By arming patients with all the information, then helping them weigh all the pros and cons, you are helping patients take an active role in a decision that affects their lives. As always, Vanderbilt Heart is committed to helping patients along the way. We will answer any questions you may have and help you find additional resources.
For us, trials are the way we make improvements in heart care.
For patients, they may represent viable treatment options.
Click here to view the clinical trials currently underway at Vanderbilt.
Click here for guidelines and information about participating in clinical trials at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
Contact Information for Research Trials:
- Arrythmia trials: call Lindee Dye at 615-936-8372
- Catheterization laboratory trials: call Mary Gordon at 615-936-8377
- General cardiology trials: call Tami Neal at 615-936-1931
- Heart failure or cardiac cell therapy trials: call Judy Francescon at 615-936-2735
- Pediatric Heart Network - Marfan Trial: call Cheryl Kinnard at 615-343-2880