Research and Clinical Trials

Cancer Research 

Carilion Clinic's cancer researchers focus on oncology, including the cellular and molecular characterization, prevention, diagnosis and therapy of human cancer; medical and hematological oncology; radiation therapy; pediatric oncology; surgical oncology; and gynecological oncology.

Current Trials

Gynecological Cancer Research 

Carilion Clinic’s Gynecological Oncology program provides specialized and progressive care to women with gynecological cancer. In addition to standard-of-care therapies, our program offers a diversified portfolio of clinical research opportunities through the Gynecologic Oncology Group and the National Cancer Institute. These research trials provide our patients with access to the most cutting-edge cancer treatments available. Learn more. 

Pediatric Oncology and Hematology 

Carilion Clinic’s Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Department provides specialty care for children with blood disorders and cancers, giving patients access to qualified and experienced specialists close to home. Our research team of doctors, nurses and coordinators work together to offer unique research options to participants and their families affected by childhood cancer. Learn more. 

Surgical and Treatment Research 

Carilion Clinic’s Surgical and Treatment Research program offers innovative and forward-thinking options to our patients with a wide range of cancer types. Our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and clinical researchers work collaboratively to provide the most advanced care, including access to numerous clinical trials. As Carilion’s Oncology research team continues to expand its trial portfolio, this department is experiencing rapid growth, bringing even more opportunities to our unique patient population. Learn more.

Blue Ridge Cancer Care Research

Carilion partners with oncologists at Blue Ridge Cancer Care to be able to offer patients a wide variety of clinical trial opportunities. In collaboration with US Oncology, we offer Phase II, III and IV clinical trials. Learn more. 

Cardiology Research

Carilion Clinic Cardiology research spans the spectrum from large, multicenter randomized clinical trials to smaller studies conceived and conducted by cardiologists from Carilion's Cardiovascular Institute. Our studies are sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, by device and pharmaceutical companies, by agencies such the American Heart Association and by foundations. Our overall goal is to participate in and conduct studies that will answer important questions in cardiovascular medicine.

Current Trials

Structural Heart Clinical Trials 

       Aortic Valve

• The BASELINE trial is to compare balloon-expandable transcatheter valves (Evolute by MEDTRONIC) with self-expanding valves (Sapien3- EDWARDS) for degenerated bioprosthetic heart valves.

       Mitral Valve

• The APOLLO trial is an alternative mitral valve replacement procedure using the Medtronic Intrepid system in patients with severe symptomatic mitral regurgitation that are unsuitable for treatment with approved transcatheter repair or conventional mitral valve intervention.
• The ENCIRCLE trial looks to establish the safety of mitral valve replacement through the femoral artery in the leg for patients that are not suitable for commercially available surgical or transcatheter treatment options.

       Left Atrial Appendage

• The ASAP II trial is to establish the safety and effectiveness of the WATCHMAN™ Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) device, including post-implant medication regimen, for subjects with non-valvular aFib who are deemed not eligible for anti-coagulation therapy to reduce the risk of stroke.
• The CONFORM Pivotal Trial is a evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of the Conformal CLAAS System for left atrial appendage closure device.

Heart Failure

Heart failure, sometimes known as congestive heart failure, occurs when your heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. Certain conditions, such as narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) or high blood pressure, gradually leave your heart too weak or stiff to fill and pump efficiently.

• The EMPOWER clinical trial uses a catheter-based CARILLON mitral valve contour device to treat functional mitral regurgitation in patients with heart failure.
• This study investigates the use of the AccuCinch Ventricular Restoration System for heart failure patients who continue to have symptoms despite medical therapy. The AccuCinch system is the only completely transcatheter procedure designed to restore, support and strengthen the enlarged left ventricle.
• The ARTISAN clinical trial looks at the ability of drug therapy using Treprostinil to reduce right ventricular remodeling and improve function of the right ventricle for individuals with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Dermatology Research 

Carilion’s Dermatology and Mohs Surgery researchers focus on improving surgical outcomes, prevention of dermatological diseases and cancers, as well as advancing current treatments for various disorders.

Current Trials

• This is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing the utility of single-dose preoperative antibiotics in the prevention of surgical site infection following Mohs surgery or surgical excision on the lower extremity below the knee.
• An observational research study for the purposes of analyzing tumors of patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma for genetic characteristics in order to help determine with more accuracy the likelihood of recurrence or metastasis.

Emergency Medicine Research

Carilion Clinic is a Level I Trauma Center. In addition to having over 150,000 visits in 2020, our Emergency Medicine physicians are engaged in multiple research endeavors to explore new treatments and processes to improve care.

Current Trials

Cannabinoid-Induced Hyperemesis Syndrome

• The CIHS study explores the effectiveness of a capsaicin-based ointment for treating nausea and vomiting in patients with cannabinoid-induced hyperemesis syndrome.

Syncope Research 

• This study aims to establish the efficacy of ED-based, post-discharge mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry for patients discharged with a diagnosis of unexplained syncope.

Concussion Research 

• The HeadSMART II study aims to evaluate the use of biomarkers in combination with a clinical assessment and both neurocognitive and neuropsychological tests to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of mild traumatic brain injury.
• This study explores the effects of brain injuries on eye movement as well as brain function.

Surviving PEA in Roanoke (SPEAR)

• Surviving Pulseless Electrical Activity in Roanoke (SPEAR) research is trying to determine if patients given a high-calcium, low-sodium solution while experiencing PEA on an ambulance in the Roanoke Valley have improved clinical outcomes.

Heart Failure Research

• This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility of remotely monitoring patients with heart failure who have been discharged from the Emergency Department.

Endovascular Surgery Research 

Carilion’s cardiothoracic surgery researchers focus on diseases of the vascular system—arteries, veins and lymphatic circulation—managed by medical therapy, minimally invasive catheter procedures and surgical reconstruction.

Current Trials

• Gore VBX Registry: This registry study looks at how safe and effective the VBX Stent Graft is for treating blocked arteries in the lower abdomen and pelvis using a minimally invasive procedure.
• ROADSTER3: This clinical study is to evaluate real world usage of the ENROUTE Transcarotid Stent when used with the ENROUTE Transcarotid Neuroprotection System in patients that require carotid artery revascularization.
• ZFEN+: This clinical study examines the Zenith® Fenestrated+ Endovascular Graft for treatment of aortic aneurysms in combination with the BeGraft Balloon-Expandable FEVAR Bridging Stent Graft System.
• TAMBE: This clinical study is to assess the safety and effectiveness of the TAMBE device (thoracoabdominal branch endoprosthesis) in the treatment of thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysms.
• RELAYPRO: This clinical trial is to investigate the safety and effectiveness of RelayPro Thoracic Stent-Grafts in subjects with an acute, complicated type B aortic dissection.
• TRIOMPHE: This clinical study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the NEXUS Aortic Arch Stent Graft System for the endovascular treatment (a minimally invasive approach) of thoracic aortic lesions involving the aortic arch.
• VERALOX: This clinical study is to test whether VLX-1005 slows the progression of or stops the development of HIT by halting the immune system reaction that causes unwanted clots.

Gynecologic Cancer Research

Carilion Clinic’s Gynecologic Oncology program provides specialized and progressive care to women with gynecological cancers. Our program offers a full range of innovative cancer treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes and quality of life for our patients.

In addition to standard-of-care therapies, our program offers a diversified portfolio of clinical research opportunities through the Gynecologic Oncology Group and the National Cancer Institute. These research trials provide our patients with access to the most cutting-edge cancer treatments available. Our program consists of 15 to 20 studies at any given time and continues to grow as our Gynecologic Oncology specialists attract significant funding each year for research at Carilion Clinic.

Current Trials

Endometrial Cancer 

Research and treatment involving cancers of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium):

• EAY191-N4 compares the use of selumetinib and olaparib or selumetinib alone for RAS pathway mutant recurrent or persistent ovarian and endometrial cancers.
• NRG-GY026 compares three different chemotherapy regimens in patients with HER2-positive Stage I-IV endometrial cancer.

Ovarian Cancer

Research and treatment involving cancers of the ovaries, fallopian tubes and peritoneum.

• EAY191-N4 compares the use of selumetinib and olaparib or selumetinib alone for RAS pathway mutant recurrent or persistent ovarian and endometrial cancers.
• NRG-CC008 compares the surgical removal of fallopian tubes or fallopian tubes and ovaries to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in patients with BRCA1 mutations.

Genetic Research 

These studies leverage genetic testing to identify specific genetic mutations in tumors and assess how targeted therapies can effectively treat patients based on their tumor’s unique genetic profile. 

• EAY191 ComboMATCH screening trial helps identify the best personalized cancer treatment by using genetic testing to match patients with solid tumors to targeted therapies based on their tumor’s unique genetic makeup.

Infectious Diseases Research

We are dedicated to preventing the spread of infectious diseases with a collaborative team of medical professionals who provide the best possible care for you, including research participation opportunities.

Current Trials

Bacterial Infection 

• The purpose of OPTIMIZE GNI is to gather data about how the body reacts to, processes and eliminates the antibiotics meropenem or cefepime. This study is looking at renal (kidney) clearance of 2 antibiotic drugs given to ICU patients.

C. Difficile Infection

• This study will examine the effectiveness and safety of Alanyl-glutamine supplementation to the standard treatment for C. difficile infection (CDI) in preventing relapse or reinfection with CDI.

Inpatient research involves conducting studies on patients admitted to a hospital or healthcare facility. This type of research focuses on understanding diseases, treatments, and care outcomes in a controlled, real-world clinical setting, often involving acute care, interventions, or monitoring over an extended period.

Current Trials

OTAC

• This research is looking for new treatments for patients with COVID-19. The goal is to find out if the investigational study drug (hIVIG) is safe and will help people stay out of the hospital and have fewer complications from COVID-19. Learn more. 

Neurosurgery Research

Carilion Clinic Neurosurgery research is committed to providing the best care possible—support, education and treatment—to optimize every patient's quality of life. We believe that this philosophy includes the pursuit of new ideas and innovations to better investigate and bring new technologies to help heal our community. 

Current Trials

Advancing Neurosurgical Technology

These initiatives focus on finding ways to develop new technologies and techniques that may be more effective at treating conditions that affect the brain and spine.

• The Flow Sensor for Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt study is examining technology and its ability to monitor tumor progression. 

Brain Imaging 

This research uses current technology in new ways to potentially improve viewing the human body and identify new compounds related to specific medical conditions, including cancer, cysts, AVMs and hernias. The goal is to develop minimally invasive and targeted therapies with fewer side effects.

• Imaging of High-Grade Gliomas is a research study in which patients will receive up to three doses of a tracer in addition to the standard-of-care serial MRI scans for monitoring tumor progression or recurrence.

Brain Tumors 

• The NRG-BNO12 study compares the addition of stereotactic radiosurgery before or after surgery in treating patients with cancer that has spread to the brain (brain metastases). Stereotactic radiosurgery is a type of radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation only to the small areas of cancer in the brain.
• Patient Tissue Engineered System to Study Glioblastoma (GBM) is a research study that uses tissue samples in a new, personalized testing system to study the spread of cancer and identify treatments that may be most effective. This information could lead to a clinical trial to develop more personalized treatment for glioblastoma tumors.

Cerebrovascular

Research that examines blood vessels in the brain or the associated nervous system in the head and neck area. This includes medical conditions such as stroke, brain bleeds, AVMs and aneurysms.

• Pericytes in Germinal Matrix Hemorrhage (GMH) aims to better understand brain signaling in newborns to prevent brain bleeds.
• Markers and Predictors in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) aims to improve the understanding of TBIs in various age groups.

Functional Neurosurgery 

Research focused on understanding and testing new methods for improving the signaling between cells in the brain. The goal is to better understand messaging and interaction that occurs in the brain to enable movement, sensations, emotion, memory and decision making. The goal is to find new ways to help people with medical conditions that impact the brain gain as much brain function as possible following diagnosis.

• Electrochemical Measurements During Epilepsy Monitoring Procedures is designed to gain basic knowledge about how the human brain works. Understanding the behavior of chemicals or neurotransmitters may advance treatment for many psychiatric and neurological conditions.
• Neural Dynamics of Epilepsy Patients uses electrodes implanted within the brain in patients with intractable epilepsy to study the nerve dynamics of the brain; large datasets will shed light on the role sleep may have in motor learning, memory, stimulus processing and mental imagery.
• Neurochemical and Neurophysiological Assessment During Surgery: Parkinson's, Dystonia and Essential Tremor will provide working data on the functioning of a single brain cell (neuron) and anatomy of the brain by using active “thinking” and passive “resting” tasks while taking measurements of brain activity during deep brain stimulator surgery.
• Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) to Control Chronic Low Back Pain will determine how low-intensity focused ultrasound can provide relief for chronic pain.

Spine Research 

• The DePuy Synthes Clinical Registry is gathering data on patients who have undergone surgery for degenerative disc disease and back pain with the use of a particular cage product. 

Obstetrics and Gynecology Research 

Carilion's Obstetrics and Gynecology team conducts research focusing on improving pregnancy and prenatal outcomes, innovating surgical approaches and advancing new technologies specifically addressing conditions that affect women. Our work also highlights early and large-scale implementation efforts to uptake clinical practices with a proven track record for improving patient care.

Current Trials

OB/GYN Research 

• This is a study to evaluate innovative placental imaging techniques in fetal growth restriction.

Orthopaedics Research

Orthopaedic medicine—the specialty that focuses on your body's musculoskeletal system made up of bones, joints, muscles and tendons—is focused on helping you live a comfortable and active life. We welcome participation by interested individuals in our orthopaedic research.

Current Trials

Spine Research 

• This study of 2 different types of spinal fusion procedures, direct lateral interbody fusion with subsequent posterior spine fusion or posterior spine fusion alone, aims to determine if the rate of recovery of physical function differs between patients.

Shoulder Research 

• This study is a global, single arm, multicenter, prospective, non-significant risk, post-market clinical follow-up to demonstrate safety and performance of Shoulder ID primary reverse glenoid after implementation.

Pediatric Cancer Research

Carilion Clinic’s Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Department provides specialty care for children with blood disorders and cancers, so you have access to qualified and experienced specialists right in your own backyard. Our research team of doctors, nurses and coordinators works together with Children's Oncology Group to offer unique research options to participants and their families affected by childhood cancer. We welcome those who are interested in participating and learning more about the various clinical trials we support in our pediatric oncology research clinic.

Current Trials

Leukemia and Lymphoma Research 

Research and treatment involving cancers of the blood and lymph node systems:

• CPX-351 compared to standard chemotherapy in children with AML. (AAML1831)
• Clinical and Biological Characteristics in Leukemias for Sub-Trials (APAL2020SC)
• Comparing levocarnitines’ impact on protecting the liver in patients with leukemia or lymphoma (ACCL1931)
• The addition of immunotherapy to the standard of care treatment on progression free-survival rates (AHOD2131)
• Treatment of Newly Diagnosed High-Risk B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia  (AALL1732)

Brain Tumor Research

Research and treatment of cancers in the brain and spinal cord:

• Identifying the Best Approach for Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy in Children with Brain Tumors (ACNS2021)
• Selumetinib compared to standard treatment of carboplatin and vincristine for subjects with low-grade glioma (ACNS1833)

Solid Tumor Research 

Research and treatment involving cancers occurring elsewhere in the body not including in the brain or spinal cord:

• Outcomes from chemotherapy, vincristine, dactinomycin, and cyclophosphamide between very low-risk and low-risk rhabdomyosarcoma (ARST2032)
• Measuring carboplatin vs cisplatin chemotherapy in germ cell tumors (AGCT1531)
• Comparing thoracotomy to thoracoscopy in individuals with osteosarcoma that has spread to the lung (AOST2031)
• Treatment of Intermediate- and Poor-Risk Germ Cell Tumors (AGCT1532)
• Treatment of Newly Diagnosed Diffuse Anaplastic Wilms Tumors and Relapsed Favorable Histology Wilms Tumors (AREN1921)

Tumor Classification and Biology Research

Classification, biology and tissue banking for various childhood tumors:

• Research Protocol for the Collection of Patient and Cancer Data and Cancer Tissue Specimens for the Study of Childhood Cancer (APEC14B1)

Late Effects Research

Research that studies the long-term impacts of treatment to improve survivors' health and quality of life.

• Triptorelin and Protection of Ovarian Reserve in Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer (ALTE2131)

Pediatric Gastroenterology Research

Carilion Children's Pediatric Gastroenterology provides specialty care for pediatric patients with multiple gastrointestinal, nutrition, and liver conditions in our community. Our research team of physicians and clinical research coordinators work collaboratively on clinical research that explore new treatment options. We welcome those that are interested in participating and learning more about Carilion Children's pediatric gastroenterology clinical trials.

Current Trials

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Research

The care team at Carilion Children's Pediatric Gastroenterology are actively engaged in both clinical care and research for inflammatory bowel disease in the pediatric population. 

• MLN0002-3025: Investigating the Treatment of Crohn's Disease with Vedolizumab

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Research 

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional bowel disorder, commonly characterized by symptoms of abdominal pain and change in bowel movement frequency. Our research team is investigating new treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome. 

• LIN-MD-64: Investigating the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Constipation with Linaclotide

Psychiatry and Psychology Research

The Carilion Mental Health team offers group and individualized treatment in outpatient and inpatient settings in the Roanoke and New River valleys. Our psychiatrists focus on different aspects of patient care, from mental disorders to chemical dependency issues. 

Current Trials

Mood Disorders 

• ALTO-300 is a study on a formulation of the atypical antidepressant agomelatine that focuses on adult patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who are currently taking another prescribed antidepressant with an inadequate response (<50% improvement).
• The RAMP study investigates the effect of mood disorder on pain perception in patients with controlled rheumatoid arthritis.
• The MBC Therapy study assesses the effectiveness of measurement-based care in psychotherapy.
• VNS therapy research investigates the effect of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy on treatment-resistant depression.

Substance Use Disorders 

• TMS Meth UD is a study investigating Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for patients with Methamphetamine Use Disorder.

Telehealth Therapy 

• Behavioral Telehealth assesses how patients and clinicians view the use of measurement-based care.

Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Research

Carilion’s pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine researchers focus on providing our patients with access to emerging treatment options for a variety of conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), interstitial lung disease, lung injury/sepsis and pulmonary vascular diseases affecting intensive care needs.

Current Trials

Pulmonary Hypertension 

• The ADVANCE-OUTCOMES clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness and safety of the medication Ralinepag for treating people with pulmonary arterial hypertension, or high blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lung.
• The ARTISAN clinical trial looks at the ability of drug therapy using Treprostinil to reduce right ventricular remodeling and improve function of the right ventricle for individuals with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Septic Shock

• The body’s immune response to infection is sometimes violent and self-harmful. This response can dilate arteries, causing very low blood pressure, a condition called septic shock. Septic shock also damages other organs, such as the liver, kidneys and heart. Patients whose blood pressure does not respond to fluids given into the veins are given vasopressors: medicines that narrow blood vessels and help maintain blood pressure. In this study, we are examining the effect of methylene blue on blood pressure as an add-on treatment to standard vasopressors. 

Rheumatology Research

Rheumatologists are doctors who are specially trained to find the causes of musculoskeletal pain and swelling, including autoimmune connective tissue disorders. We welcome participation by interested individuals in our rheumatology research.

Current Trials

Identifying the causes of pain is important because in many cases, an early diagnosis means treatment can begin when the disorder has the best chance of responding. We welcome participation by interested individuals in our lupus research.

• SELECT-SLE is a clinical trial to assess the effectiveness and safety of upadacitinib, a new oral drug, in patients with Active Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
• The RAMP study investigates the effect of mood disorder on pain perception in patients with controlled rheumatoid arthritis.

Surgery Research

Carilion Clinic's highly experienced general surgeons provide evaluations and treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions. With superior skills and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care, our surgeons are up to date in the latest and most innovative procedures. They are focused on quality, safety and using the least invasive approach to achieve the best possible outcome for each patient.

Current Trials

• EXTINGuish ARDS is a phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ExoFlo, an investigational infusion treatment for patients with moderate to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• TAK-330 is a phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate an investigational drug that may help control bleeding in patients on blood thinners who need emergency surgery. 

Surgical and Treatment Research 

Carilion Clinic’s Surgical and Treatment Oncology Research program includes experienced doctors, nurses and clinical researchers who collaborate daily to deliver the most advanced care, including participation in clinical trials.

Current Trials

Brain Cancer

• The NRG-BNO12 study compares the addition of stereotactic radiosurgery before or after surgery in treating patients with cancer that has spread to the brain (brain metastases). Stereotactic radiosurgery is a type of radiation therapy that delivers a high dose of radiation only to the small areas of cancer in the brain.

Breast Cancer 

• The NRG-CC011 study is a phase III trial to examine the efficacy of computerized cognitive training methods on perceived cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors.

Colon Cancer

• The NRG-CC005 FORTE study is a phase III trial that compares how often (every 5 and 10 years versus every 10 years) a colonoscopy should be done in participants who had 1 – 2 non-cancerous (benign) small growths of tissue (polyps) removed from their colon.

Lung Cancer

• The Everest study aims to develop a blood test to identify cigarette smokers at high risk for early-stage lung cancer, improving screening effectiveness.

Multiple Solid Tumors

• COSMIC is a multi-site clinical study enrolling 2,000 newly diagnosed patients with breast, colorectal, melanoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma or non-small cell lung cancer who are planning to receive 1 or more systemic cancer directed therapies with chemotherapy and/or ICIs (immune checkpoint inhibitors).

Pancreatic Cancer 

• A021806 is a study that compares chemotherapy perioperatively (before and after surgery) versus adjuvant (only after surgery) for the treatment of pancreatic cancer that can be removed by surgery.
• The EA2185 surveillance program, compares low- and high-imaging surveillance programs for people who have cysts on the pancreas. 

Prostate Cancer

• URCC-22053 is evaluating the use of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in male patients 60 years or older who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and have recently begun or are about to start androgen deprivation therapy.