Research & News

Current Research
Intermountain is nationally recognized for medical science contributions through healthcare related research that improves patient treatment methods and results in new clinical techniques.

Factor 64
A study for high risk diabetic patients using CT Angiography to help evaluate cardiovascular risk and prevent heart attacks. Patients will be randomized to standard diabetic management or will receive a CT angiogram to evaluate cardiovascular disease. Patients undergoing CT Angiography will then be placed in different groups depending on the result of the scanning.

Couma-Gen
Anticoagulation with warfarin (CoumadinÒ) is a common and potentially hazardous therapeutic intervention. It is a leading cause of iatrogenic bleeding events and, hence, of malpractice claims. There are no good alternatives presently for warfarin anticoagulation, and even when alternatives become available (i.e., ximelagatran), cost, labeling, and experience (outcomes-related) issues will continue to favor an extensive and ongoing use of warfarin.

If the present study is able to confirm an advantage for a genotype-driven algorithm, in terms of improved efficiency, therapeutic efficacy, and, especially, safety, then a pharmacogenetics approach to warfarin dosing can be recommended as the basis for a system wide quality improvement initiative that should improve patient outcomes, reduce resource use (costs of achieving safe and therapeutic anticoagulation), and reduce adverse clinical events.

Artificial Heart Research — HeartMate II Trials
These trials will determine the benefits of the HeartMate II left ventricular assist device for Bridge-to-Transplant and Permanent ("Destination") Therapy in patients with advanced heart failure. As of November 2007, the UAHP has implanted 28 patients with the HeartMate II. The results of these trials will be submitted for FDA approval.

Heart & Vascular News
Learn about the latest medical news in heart and vascular research, and technolgical advances:

KSL Newsradio — Radio Spots
Healing for Life is Intermountain's weekly radio program airing on KSL Newsradio, which offers a close look at new medical technology, innovative programs and approaches, and the people behind them. Hosted by Linda Leckman, MD.

'It matters' – Heart Services video
Heart experience leads to expertise, and Intermountain Healthcare treats more heart patients than all other Utah healthcare organizations combined. It matters because it results in better treatment plans, more treatment options, and faster recovery, getting our heart patients back to living life.