Research at South West Transplant Centre (SWTC)
Research plays a vital role in the delivery of safe, effective, and high‑quality care to millions of patients across the NHS. It helps us to better understand conditions and drives improvements in diagnostic tests, treatment options and care pathways.
By taking part in nationally recognised research studies, we support the development of evidence-based practice and national guidelines, resulting in improved patient care, outcomes and experiences. Our involvement in research reflects our commitment to continually improving services for current and future transplant patients.
For patients, taking part in research is always voluntary, and whether or not patients choose to participate, their care is never affected. By supporting research, patients can help shape and improve care for themselves and others in the future.
We are currently recruiting eligible patients for two research studies below. If you would like to find out more information about either of these studies, please call the transplant team on 01752 439957 to discuss your eligibility.
The ASK Trial
A trial of a patient and family outreach service to improve AccesS to living-donor Kidney transplantation
The ASK trial looks at how information about living donor kidney transplantation is shared with potential recipients and their family/friends. The aim is to ensure all eligible patients are offered the opportunity to discuss living donor kidney transplantation regardless of background or circumstance. By identifying and reducing barriers, the ASK study aims to help more patients consider a transplant from a living person as a safe and effective treatment option.
CRAFT CTCA study
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment For Kidney Transplantation - Utility of Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography in the Assessment of Patients Awaiting Kidney Transplantation (CRAFT-CTCA)
The CRAFT CTCA study aims to evaluate patients at risk of heart disease whilst waiting for a kidney transplant. This study will explore whether a CT scan of the heart can help identify cardiovascular risk factors in patients who go on to receive a kidney transplant. This may lead to improvements in the assessment process and less invasive heart testing for patients in the future.
