Cardiac Surgery Clinical Research
From pursuing breakthroughs to enabling better lives, our clinical trials explore novel treatments, surgical techniques and medical devices to improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease.
Exploring New Horizons in Heart Health Through Clinical Research
Clinical trials are a cornerstone of progress in cardiac surgery, providing a critical pathway for evaluating new devices, techniques, and treatments. By translating cutting-edge research into real-world applications, these trials help drive meaningful improvements in outcomes and quality of life for patients with heart disease.
Our clinical research program is built around a patient-centered approach with carefully designed studies that investigate the latest advancements in cardiovascular care and offer access to promising therapies before they become widely available. The insights gained through this work have the potential to influence surgical practices and redefine care delivery well into the future.
REMEDY: A Dedicated Clinical Research Engine
Recognizing the need for a specialized approach to clinical research, the U-M Medical School Department of Cardiac Surgery established the REMEDY team in 2021 as a dedicated hub for the implementation and execution of complex clinical trials. REMEDY serves as a vital bridge between clinical faculty and research administration—coordinating studies, streamlining patient enrollment, and managing the collection of data to ensure accuracy and compliance. This collaborative infrastructure allows our surgeons and scientists to focus on innovation, while the REMEDY team provides seamless operational support.
Currently managing over 50 active clinical trials and preparing several more for launch, REMEDY oversees a research portfolio that explores breakthrough treatments across multiple cardiovascular domains. Our clinical investigations span critical areas such as aortic conditions, coronary interventions, heart valve technologies, and ventricular assist devices (VADs). These studies examine medical technologies, novel surgical techniques, and emerging treatment strategies aimed at improving both immediate and long-term patient outcomes. Through partnerships with multidisciplinary teams and leading industry collaborators, our researchers are helping expand treatment options for patients with complex cardiovascular conditions.
Every clinical trial we conduct is thoughtfully structured with one goal in mind—to enhance the quality, safety, and effectiveness of cardiac care. Through methodical, patient-centered studies, we continue to refine surgical approaches, reduce risks, and improve recovery times. Our commitment extends beyond incremental improvements as we are dedicated to pushing the frontiers of medical science, ensuring that each research initiative translates into meaningful, life-changing outcomes for patients. This relentless pursuit of excellence is what keeps our department at the forefront of innovation and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in cardiac surgery.
Health Research Opportunities
Interested in learning more about clinical trials and research studies? Visit UMHealthResearch to discover current opportunities.
Program Leadership
Gorav Ailawadi
Chair, Department of Cardiac Surgery
Co-Director, Frankel Cardiovascular Center
Professor of Cardiac Surgery, Medical School
Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School and College of Engineering