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UNC Invasive Cardiology ResearchClinical research trials are an important aid in advancing understanding of the cardiac disease process, and in developing better treatments. They allow patients access to leading-edge therapies which might otherwise not be available for many years. Through the years, the UNC cardiac catheterization laboratory has been part of studies looking at new intracoronary stent designs, novel devices to treat coronary artery disease, and new drugs used in coronary artery disease treatment. UNC is also one of the few sites in North Carolina to participate in studies sponsored by the National Institutes of Health to determine the best treatments for blockages in the renal arteries (renal aftery stenosis) and for damaged hearts (cardiomyopathy). Several physicians in the cardiac catheterization lab have received special recognition for their research, including awards from the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology, and the National Institutes of Health. Lastly, it is common in clinical research trials for patients to receive the new drug or device free of charge. Thus, clinical research trials can be beneficial in many ways to patients with financial hardships. PHYSICIANSGeorge Stouffer, MD |
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