Clinical trials unit

The Cardiology Clinical Trials Unit has the breadth of expertise in cardiovascular therapeutic and interventional clinical trials.

The research unit is one of the largest and leading sites in Australia in the coordination and conduct of international multi-centre clinical trials and investigator- initiated research focusing on structural heart transcatheter procedures as an alternative to open heart surgery and treatments to heart failure when no other treatment options are no longer available.

The collaborative team of cardiac research experts contribute to the worldwide knowledge bank and rapid evolution of technology that is leading the way to improvements in longevity and quality of life for cardiac patients.

The team coordinates an average of 40 to 45 research projects every year. In 2021, there were 25 device trials, 13 drug trials, the Infective Endocarditis Biobank, local and other international investigator-led research projects investigating diagnostics and clinical remote monitoring devices. Various Cardiovascular, COVID, Echo, Impella and Mitral Clip registries were also maintained by the research team. Additionally, the team provides clinical trials leadership, supervision and direction to investigators and higher degree research students. The clinical trials unit and investigators are known to be national and world leaders in clinical trials. Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, particularly the slowing down of clinical trials other than COVID 19 research, the trials unit has seen an unprecedented increase in the number of clinical trials being commenced.