The Columbia Weill Cornell Division of Vascular Surgery is involved in several clinical trials (research studies) of new treatments for vascular disorders


Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a new, experimental treatment for people with decreased circulation in the legs. The hope is that this therapy will stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the treated area. The doctors of the Columbia Weill Cornell Division of Vascular Surgery have been selected as investigators on multicenter clinical trials utilizing gene therapy to treat patients with arterial occlusive disease of the lower extremity. These research studies are evaluating the efficacy and safety of administering gene therapy to patients with severe arterial occlusive disease who are poor candidates for bypass surgery or angioplasty to the leg.


Carotid Stenting

Physicians in the Division of Vascular Surgery are leading a research study of carotid stenting for people at high risk for undergoing traditional carotid artery surgery. Although stenting is less invasive, Carotid Endarterectomy is extremely safe and effective and is the procedure of choice for most people. There are, however, patients that may benefit from this minimally invasive procedure. This research study is evaluating the efficacy and safety of carotid stenting as an alternative in people that are risky surgical candidates, such as people with severe lung or heart disease or people that have previously undergone a carotid endarterectomy.

For more information about ongoing research studies in the Division of Vascular Surgery please contact our research coordinators at rjg2003@med.cornell.edu.