The Trauma Research Team is currently conducting several exciting research projects including pharmaceutical-sponsored trials, grant-funded research and original projects. All projects are designed with the objective of optimizing care of the traumatically injured patient. Listed below is a brief summary of the research projects currently ongoing:

Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy (VATS) Study

This original project entitled “Video-Assisted Thoracoscopy, A Primary Treatment of Parapneumonic Effusions” is being conducted by Gary Salzman, MD, and Charles VanWay, MD. The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of VATS as a primary therapy for empyema. The study is investigating whether VATS is superior to chest-tube placement for the initial management of parapneumonic effusions.

Hemorrhagic Shock Study

Charles W. Van Way III, M.D., Sosland / Missouri Endowed Chair of Trauma Services Director, Shock /Trauma Research Center is investigating the mechanisms of cell injury following hemorrhagic shock, and specifically how the development of shock leads to the depletion of cellular energy stores and cell death. The goal of this research program is to develop new treatments for hemorrhagic shock which can be administered before or during initial resuscitation. The research program includes both basic science investigations and clinical trials.

Other pharmaceutical sponsored, original, and community focused research projects are currently being evaluated for implementation at TMC. For further information about these or other trauma research projects, please contact Mickie Keeling or Kim Dyer in Trauma Services.