Frequently Asked Questions
Sutter Heart & Vascular Institute

What is a Clinical Trial?
A clinical trial is a study conducted with patients, usually to evaluate a new medical treatment or therapy. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find new and better ways to help treat patients.

Before a new treatment is tried with patients, it is carefully studied in the laboratory. This research points out the new methods most likely to succeed, and as much as possible, shows how to use them safely and effectively.

Patient participation is a combination of: specific research requirements; a patient's desire to volunteer and their doctor's approval. Sutter Institute for Medical Research suggests strongly learning as much as you can about the trial you are interested in, before deciding to volunteer.

If you, a family member or friend is considering joining a clinical trial, please discuss options with medical professionals, your own doctor, and those close to you.

These clinical trials are listed for informational purposes, and are not to be used outside of a clinical trial setting. Please contact the Sutter Institute for Medical Research for full particulars regarding enrollment of any clinical trial.

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