Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the qualifications interested potential participants need to meet in order to join a clinical research study for abdominal or pelvic surgery:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a scheduled abdominal or pelvic surgery (e.g. hysterectomy, prostate surgery, bladder surgery, bowel surgery) in the next 1-3 months
• Have not undergone a kidney transplant

Only your surgeon can decide if you may be a suitable candidate for a surgical clinical trial. If you are interested in taking part in a study, your surgical team will provide additional information.

The information gleaned from clinical studies may help identify new surgical treatment options in the future. Study participants are often connected to study team members who understand their situation and can help answer questions from patients or their loved ones. Participants in research studies should expect to enjoy a professional clinical environment, be treated with compassion and respect, and have access to top quality care during the trial.

There are additional routine tests and measurements needed before and after surgery, and typically these will be done at the same time as a patient’s other visits whenever possible. There is a screening visit, which can occur alongside a patient’s regular pre-operative appointment, with some additional study-related items included. Potential participants will answer questions about their medical history and any medicines they take to determine eligibility for a surgical clinical trial. Once verified, the patient is asked to sign an Informed Consent Form, which clearly provides the details and purpose of the research study to that individual and what it involves. The patient’s scheduled surgery will then proceed as planned, with the addition of an investigational drug being administered while in surgery. A follow-up visit will be conducted at the same time as the participant’s routine post-operative appointment, for additional monitoring.

There is no additional cost to participate in a clinical trial. Participants receive all study-related medical care and study-related medications at no cost. Likewise in many instances, patients also enjoy benefits such as reimbursement for study-related travel.

As all drugs and medical procedures carry a risk of side effects, the possibility that participants may experience some discomfort or other reactions as a result of an investigational treatment does exist. The potential risks will be explained before participants decide whether to participate, and your surgeon can help address any questions or concerns.

Yes. Participation in a clinical research study is completely voluntary, and you may withdraw from a clinical research study at any time for any reason.

If you are interested in learning more, please contact us at any time. You may email us at help@clinicalenrollment.com.