The surgeons at the St. Louis Vascular Center participate in a number of clinical trials that provide access to important advances in vascular health. The vascular physicians regularly serve as investigators for clinical trials that allow them to provide the in conjunction with federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and many others. These physicians participate in vascular studies involving advances in the treatment of:

• Carotid artery stenosis – a build-up of plaque in the carotid arteries; these arteries supply blood to the head and neck
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm – a weakened and bulging area in the abdominal section of the aorta; the aorta is the body’s predominant supplier of blood
• Thoracic aortic aneurysm – a weakened and bulging area in the upper portion of the aorta
• Thoracic aortic dissection – a tear in the lining of the aorta; this requires immediate treatment

All vascular clinical trials are reviewed by the St. John’s Mercy Institutional Review Board (IRB). Talk with your physician at the St. Louis Vascular Center for more information on how you can participate in a vascular clinical trial. For more information about vascular clinical trials, call 314-251-4200.