Body

Stroke Research and Clinical Trials in Northern Michigan

Munson Healthcare's stroke research program brings the newest and most promising research trials to our community, often offering cutting-edge therapies that would otherwise not be available in our region. Since 2022, our program has allowed northern Michigan residents and visitors to participate in industry or government sponsored stroke research studies that help expand medical knowledge and improve stroke care.

See Our Current StudiesLearn About Participating

Importance of Research

munson healthcare minutes matter stroke image

Research studies—also known as clinical trials or clinical research—play a vital role in advancing healthcare and developing new treatments. These studies generate valuable insights that help shape future medical care. 

By choosing to participate, patients may gain early access to promising new medications or procedures not yet available to the public. Just as importantly, their participation helps improve care and outcomes for others facing similar health conditions.

Research Safety

All research conducted at Munson Medical Center has been reviewed and approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) before participants can be enrolled. It is the responsibility of the IRB to make sure the study is safe and that the benefits of participating in the study outweigh any possible risks.

Research studies must be conducted according to strict guidelines and regulations that are designed to protect your rights and well-being. There are always risks and possible side effects in research. However, some of these same risks are not uncommon during daily life. As a research participant, you will be told of any known risks before you agree to take part in the study. You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Studies Currently Seeking Participants

Researchers are currently looking for participants for the following studies. Click the links for more details, and talk to your healthcare provider if you feel you might be a good candidate. 

  Studies Closed to Enrollment

These studies are in progress but are no longer seeking participants. 

  Collaborations and Registries

Munson Healthcare's stroke program is involved in many collaborations and registries to expand medical knowledge, enhance stroke care, and improve patients' lives.  

  • Michigan Stroke Treatment Improvement Collaborative (MISTIC).
  • Outcomes of Flow Diverters for Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms – International Registry of Flow Diverter Stents (IRF). Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
  • SAVESDH: Subdural Hematoma Artery Embolization Value and Economics Cost-effectiveness of MMA Coil Embolization. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.
  • Retrospective Multicenter Study Evaluating Coil Embolization of the Middle Meningeal Artery using SwiftPAC Coils for Alone for Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematoma. Semmes Murphey Foundation. 
  • External Validation of Acute Atherosclerotic Ischemic Stroke Radiological Markers. Collaboration with Fazeel Siddiqui, MD, FAHA-University of Michigan Health-West.
  • Efficacy and Adverse Outcomes in Transfemoral Access (TFA) vs. Transradial Access (TRA) for Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke. Collaboration with Fazeel Siddiqui, MD, FAHA-University of Michigan Health-West.
  • Comparison of Zoom 71 vs. Zoom 7x (Self-Orienting Tip Catheter) for Navigation and Thrombectomy Performance. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.
  • Acute Stenting During Mechanical Thrombectomy in Tandem Occlusions: Current Evidence and Clinical Outcomes. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.
  • Intracranial Atherosclerosis Registry. Collaboration with Edgar Samaneigo, MD, MS, FAAN, FSVIN, University of Iowa Comprehensive Stroke Center.
  • Large Vessel Occlusion Recanalization Secondary to TNK Administration. HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.

Participating in a Study

Participant Screening

Research studies require specific types of volunteers. Participant screening helps determine whether a study is a good fit for you—and whether the study is the right match for your interests, background, and health. This process ensures a safe, meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Understanding Your Role

Being informed is an essential part of participating in research. Studies differ in their goals and participant requirements. You will be provided with a clear explanation of the study’s purpose, what it aims to learn, and what is expected of you as a participant. It is important that you fully understand these details and feel comfortable before taking part. Questions are always welcome.

Requirements of Participants

Studies may involve taking medication or using a device. You may be required to undergo additional tests such as having your blood drawn or undergoing medical imaging. You may also be required to consult with your physician. All requirements will be explained to you before you decide to participate. 

If you wish to withdraw as a participant at any time before or during the study, you may do so. 

Your participation in the research study may be considered part of your medical treatment and may be covered under your health insurance plan. The cost of your participation might also be covered by the study sponsor. However, you should discuss research participation expenses and their eligibility for coverage with your insurance company prior to deciding to participate. If your insurance company requires a co-payment or deductible for standard of care procedures related to your participation as a research participant, you will be responsible for making that payment.

Deciding to Participate in a Research Study

Participation in clinical research is completely voluntary. It is a personal choice that must be made carefully. Take time to review all the information provided to you. We encourage you to consult with your family, friends, and physician before making your decision.


For More Information

If you have questions or are interested in learning if you or someone you know may qualify to participate in a stroke research study, please talk to your healthcare provider.

For more information, contact the Research Team at MHC-Research@mhc.net.