Since its founding in 1991, the LeBauer-Brodie Center for Cardiovascular Research and Education has become a model for community-based clinical research. Our physicians are dedicated to providing the best possible patient care, and taking part in national clinical trials allows them to provide the most current and effective treatments in the field. "We’ve conducted more than 300 clinical trials over the years, giving thousands of local patients access to investigational drugs, devices and new strategies," says Thomas Stuckey, MD, co-founder and medical director of the center. "Our local research has also helped improve treatment for people around the world with cardiovascular disease." When selecting clinical trials, we look for those with the highest potential for advancing treatment, especially in the areas of: • Heart attacks or heart surgery • Electrical disorders of the heart • Heart failure • Peripheral artery disease • Management of cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes Current research efforts include: • Coronary Artery Disease Learning and Algorithm Development (CAD-LAD). This study is testing a new device that uses simple electrocardiogram-type techniques and machine learning technology to diagnose CAD with no risk to the patient. The Heart and Vascular Center leads the nation in enrollment for the study. • Multiple new stent trials. Our research team is evaluating better technology, polymers and bioabsorbable stent scaffolds. • Stroke and atrial fibrillation. We’re involved in studies to better understand the relationship between strokes and AFib, and to find new ways of identifying patients who are at risk. • ReDS at Discharge. This study uses the ReDS system (a noninvasive device that includes a wearable vest and bedside console) to measure the amount of a patient’s lung fluid using wave impedance technology. The goal is to determine if patients with congestive heart failure are ready to be discharged from the hospital. • Lipid trials. Our current clinical trials are assessing PCSK-9, Bempedoic acid, CTEP inhibitor and strategies for managing lipid metabolism disorders. • Multiple heart failure studies. Our research team is testing new drugs and devices to manage heart failure more effectively. Research and Clinical Trials The fact that we do research in a community hospital sets us apart. Our patients can get the latest technology and treatments, often years before they’re approved for general use, without having to travel to a larger academic hospital. Stent research conducted here has contributed to scientific advances around the world. We continue that research today, evaluating the newer generations of stents that will ultimately benefit patients in our community and nationwide. Sally Milks, BSN, RN, Research Nurse Coordinator LeBauer-Brodie Center for Cardiovascular Research and Education 38 39 CONE HEALTH | HEART AND VASCULAR CENTER CONE HEALTH | THE NETWORK FOR EXCEPTIONAL CARE ‘‘ ‘‘