SERVER IS DOWN FOR MAINTENANCE. PLEASE COME BACK LATER OR CONTACT AN ADMIN.
Trial Overview
Heart surgery to repair one of the valves in the heart (the mitral valve) is commonly performed in the NHS. Patients needing this operation sometimes suffer symptoms of shortness of breath (especially when exercising), tiredness, and swollen ankles, caused by the valve becoming leaky (mitral regurgitation). Some patients suffer very few symptoms. These patients are quite often of working age so time away from their place of work can be difficult for a number of reasons. We need to make sure that the operations offered within the NHS are the best for patients.
Use the quick links below to navigate the website.
Trial Stages
The UK Mini Mitral Trial can be broken down in to 6 main stages which you can see below. Please follow the links to learn more about each stage.
The Trial Through a Patient's Eyes
"I volunteered to be involved in the mini-Mitral study because I am aware that without people putting themselves forward for things like this, that it is difficult for medical and surgical techniques to move forward. The purpose of the research was thoroughly explained to me in advance both by the nursing team and the Consultant. Their approach from the start put me at ease and made me feel like I was not simply part of a research programme but that they were also people involved in my ongoing care. The staff member who knew what type of surgery I had, actually came to see me whilst I was in for surgery simply to say hello and further explain what happens next, it just so happened that they attended at a time when I just needed to see a friendly and familiar face - so it was very welcomed.
During the following year I undertook the telephone questionnaires with the staff member who is unaware of my type of surgery and also had follow up contact reviews with the other staff member. Both were keen to ensure that these contacts were convenient to me and although again their focus was research, both approached them with care and consideration that was very welcomed. Heart surgery and its recovery can feel scary and my contact with the research team added an additional layer of reassurance to the whole process. If I were to be asked to be part of research programme again, I feel my experience from the mini-Mitral study will positively affect my decision."
Patient Feedback
"When I participated in the trial it was nice to have the sense I was looked after. I think the research will benefit others."
-Jennifer, Trial Patient
"I feel really privileged I'm taking part in the trial, not only that, it will show people how easy it is."
-Charles, Trial Patient
"The research nurse was a good life line, could ring her any time and she put us at ease."
-Anonymous Trial Patient
"The study was carried out in a professional and friendly manner. I was reassured at all times."
-Anonymous Trial Patient
"Hospital and staff first class"
-Anonymous Trial Patient
"Thank you for enabling me to be a part of the research study."
-Anonymous Trial Patient
*Permission to publish anonymous feedback gathered by the Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria National Institute for Health Research was granted.
