Stanford University
Clinical trials sponsored by Stanford University, explained in plain language.
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New pill may ease chronic arm swelling in lymphedema patients
Disease control OngoingThis study tests an oral drug called acebilustat to see if it can reduce arm swelling in people with lymphedema. About 40 adults with long-term arm lymphedema will take either the drug or a placebo for 9 months. The goal is to measure changes in skin thickness and arm size.
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:58 UTC
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Less antibiotics may work just as well after nose surgery
Disease control ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether a single dose of antibiotics given during nose surgery works as well as taking a full course of antibiotics afterward to prevent infection. About 864 adults having nose surgery will take part. The goal is to see if using fewer antibiotics is safe and e…
Phase: PHASE3 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:57 UTC
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Immunotherapy drug shows promise for rare, aggressive thyroid cancer
Disease control OngoingThis study tests whether the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) can shrink or control anaplastic thyroid cancer, a rare and aggressive type. The trial includes 12 adults whose cancer has spread or cannot be removed and who have no other treatment options. Participants re…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:57 UTC
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New drug aims to shrink brain tumors in advanced cancer patients
Disease control OngoingThis study tests an experimental drug called QBS72S in 21 adults with advanced breast or lung cancer that has spread to the brain or the lining around the brain. The main goal is to see if the drug can shrink or eliminate brain tumors. Participants must be 18 or older and have a …
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:57 UTC
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Could a few days of radiation replace six weeks for breast cancer patients?
Disease control OngoingThis study tests whether a shorter course of radiation (4–5 days) focused only on the area where the tumor was removed is as safe and effective as the standard 6.5-week whole-breast radiation. About 121 women aged 40 and older with small breast cancers who chose lumpectomy are be…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:52 UTC
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Nerve block may boost brain blood flow after aneurysm
Disease control ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a cervical sympathetic block (an injection near the spine) can increase blood flow to the brain in patients who develop narrowed blood vessels (vasospasm) after a bleeding aneurysm. Ten adults in the ICU will receive the block, and researchers will measur…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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New radiation approach targets prostate cancer from the inside
Disease control OngoingThis study looks at a type of radiation therapy called high-dose-rate brachytherapy for men with prostate cancer that hasn't spread. Doctors place tiny radioactive sources directly into the prostate to deliver a strong dose of radiation to the tumor while sparing nearby healthy t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:01 UTC
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New imaging method could improve cancer staging accuracy
Diagnosis TerminatedThis early-phase study tests a new imaging agent called 111In-panitumumab to see if it can safely and accurately find cancer that has spread to lymph nodes in people with head and neck cancer. About 28 participants will receive an injection of this agent before surgery, and its a…
Phase: PHASE1 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Diagnosis
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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New online toolkit aims to curb teen vaping epidemic
Prevention ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a free online program called Healthy Futures that teaches high school students about the risks of tobacco and nicotine and provides resources to quit. About 2,540 students from participating schools will either use the program or continue with their school's usua…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:02 UTC
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Stanford launches massive vaping prevention study in schools
Prevention ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a free online curriculum called Be Vape Free can help middle and high school students resist using e-cigarettes. Over 10,000 students will take part, and researchers will measure changes in vaping behavior, attitudes, and intentions. The goal is to find o…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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Social media skin cancer prevention study pulled before start
Prevention TerminatedThis study planned to use online tools like ads and social media to encourage people to avoid risky behaviors such as indoor tanning, with the goal of preventing skin cancer. It was designed for adult men on Facebook who showed interest in the LGBT community. However, the study w…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:58 UTC
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Water over soda: daycare study aims to stop obesity before it starts
Prevention OngoingThis study tests whether encouraging water instead of sugary drinks at childcare centers can help prevent obesity in preschool-aged children. Researchers will track 882 kids' drink choices and weight changes over time. The goal is to see if this simple change early in life can ma…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Prevention
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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Could a simple vibration ease your chronic pain?
Symptom relief TerminatedThis study tests a new device that uses gentle vibrations on the belly, back, or temples to help people with chronic pain conditions like pelvic pain, abdominal pain, low back pain, or migraine. About 50 adults will try the real device or a placebo to see if it safely reduces pai…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 17:27 UTC
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New wrist therapy shows promise without knife
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a gentle exercise method called blood flow restriction (BFR) for people with wrist pain on the pinky side. Participants wear a cuff on their arm while doing light exercises to see if it improves grip strength and daily function better than standard therapy alone.…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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AI tutor helps glaucoma patients ace tricky eye test
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a computer-based AI teaching tool can help glaucoma patients better understand and perform a visual field test, which checks side vision. About 80 English-speaking adults with glaucoma will use the tool before their test. The goal is to see if it makes te…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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Ketamine or sugar water? new study tests pain relief during sleep
Symptom relief OngoingThis study compares a single dose of ketamine to a placebo (saline) given during sedation with propofol in 40 adults with chronic pain and depression. The goal is to see if the placebo works just as well as ketamine under these conditions. Participants will be randomly assigned t…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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New dressing may reduce scars after breast reconstruction
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests a special silicone dressing (Neodyne embrace) to see if it can improve the appearance of abdominal scars after breast reconstruction surgery. Thirty women who had breast reconstruction using tissue from their belly will have half their scar treated with the dress…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:58 UTC
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Vibrating gadget could take the ouch out of needle sticks
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests whether a small, vibrating device held during needle procedures (like blood draws or IV placement) can reduce pain and anxiety. Researchers will compare reactions in 1100 children and adults. The goal is to find a simple, drug-free way to make these common proced…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:57 UTC
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Laughing gas may speed recovery after colonoscopy
Symptom relief TerminatedThis study aimed to see if adding nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to standard sedation during colonoscopy or upper endoscopy could reduce side effects like fatigue, mental fogginess, and nausea after the procedure. It was designed for adults undergoing these procedures. However, the…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:52 UTC
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New study tests simple skills to stop C-Section pain
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a single pain relief skills session, called Empowered Relief, can lower the chance of long-term pain after a cesarean delivery. Researchers will enroll 60 women who still have moderate to severe pain six weeks after their C-section. Participants will atte…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:52 UTC
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Virtual mom vs. medicine: study to soothe kids before surgery pulled
Symptom relief TerminatedThis study aimed to see if having a parent appear on a video screen during anesthesia induction could reduce children's anxiety as effectively as the sedative midazolam. It planned to enroll children ages 4 to 8 having outpatient surgery. However, the study was withdrawn before a…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:51 UTC
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Virtual workouts may help kidney patients get Transplant-Ready
Symptom relief OngoingThis study looks at whether a supervised exercise program done at home can improve physical function in adults waiting for a kidney transplant. About 80 participants will either take part in the exercise program or receive health education. The main goal is to see if they can sta…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:48 UTC
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No-Needle radiotherapy: new AV system lets kids skip anesthesia
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests a special audio-visual system called AVATAR to help children aged 3 to 10 stay still during radiotherapy without needing anesthesia. The goal is to see how many kids can complete at least one treatment session without anesthesia. If successful, this could make ra…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 28, 2026 13:02 UTC
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VR headsets bring joy to bedridden Moms-to-Be in depression trial
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether virtual reality (VR) therapy can help reduce depression in pregnant women who must stay in the hospital for weeks due to complications. About 44 participants will either receive VR-enhanced behavioral activation therapy or standard social work support. Th…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:03 UTC
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Can a common supplement ease repetitive behaviors in kids with autism?
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a well-tolerated nutritional supplement, can help reduce restricted and repetitive behaviors in children with autism. Researchers will use brain scans and EEG to understand how NAC works. The study is open to children who have a…
Phase: PHASE2, PHASE3 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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Shock therapy at home? tiny trial tests brain zaps for epilepsy
Symptom relief OngoingThis small study tested whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) could be used safely at home to reduce seizures in people with epilepsy. Four adults with hard-to-control seizures used the device daily. Researchers t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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Exercise during pregnancy may ease depression and anxiety
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether a physical activity program can help pregnant people who have symptoms of depression or anxiety feel better. Researchers will measure changes in mood and stress markers. About 88 participants will be randomly assigned to the activity program or usual c…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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Brain wave study seeks to unlock Fentanyl's 'Liking' signal
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at brain activity (EEG) in 20 adults having surgery to see how fentanyl changes brain waves and how those changes relate to drug liking. Researchers want to find a brain signal that shows how much someone likes the drug's effects. This is an observational study, …
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:01 UTC
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Veterans' brain scans may reveal who TMS helps most
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at brain scans of 100 Veterans with treatment-resistant depression to find patterns that predict whether transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) will help them. Participants receive routine TMS care while researchers use MRI to measure brain activity during tasks…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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Stanford hunts for pain predictors in 250-Person biomarker study
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study aims to find biological markers that can tell if a person with chronic muscle or joint pain will get better or continue to have severe pain and disability. Researchers will follow 250 adults over time, using tests like MRIs and pain surveys. The goal is to improve diag…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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10-Year heart study reveals which treatment helps patients live longer
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study follows 1,500 people with blocked heart arteries to see how they are doing 10 years after receiving either a stent or bypass surgery. Researchers want to learn which treatment leads to better survival and quality of life. Participants were already treated and are now b…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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New smartphone app could revolutionize Alzheimer's monitoring
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study aims to create a mobile app that automatically scores physical performance tests, helping doctors track changes that may signal Alzheimer's disease. Researchers will collect video data from 20 to 30 healthy adults aged 18 and older to build and refine the app. The goal…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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Smartphone app aims to spot surgical infections
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study was designed to see if a mobile monitoring tool can accurately identify surgical site infections (SSIs) in people who have had orthopedic surgery. Researchers planned to compare the tool's results with manual medical record reviews. The study was withdrawn before enrol…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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AI Role-Play could train doctors to handle tough talks
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if artificial intelligence simulations could help anesthesiology trainees practice difficult conversations, like telling a patient about a medical error. It was designed for healthcare workers at Stanford's children's hospital. However, the study was withd…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:52 UTC
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Heart scan alert study pulled before starting
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if notifying patients and their primary care doctors about calcium buildup in the heart arteries (found on a previous CT scan) would increase the use of cholesterol-lowering statins. It planned to include adults without known heart disease who were not alr…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Ketamine or saltwater? stanford study probes Sedation's hidden effects
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study at Stanford University tests whether adding ketamine to standard sedation changes the experience of people with major depressive disorder. Fifteen healthy volunteers will receive both ketamine and saline (saltwater) during separate sedation sessions, without knowing wh…
Phase: PHASE1 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Could a little zap make your surgery numbness better?
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether using a mild electrical pulse (neurostimulation) along with ultrasound helps make nerve blocks work better for people having arm surgery. About 82 adults will take part. The goal is to see if the stimulation speeds up numbness and improves pain control…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Stanford study probes drug liking during procedures
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis early-phase study at Stanford University looks at whether medications given before or during medical procedures change how much people like the drug experience. About 100 adults scheduled for surgery will rate their drug liking and sedation levels, and researchers will also …
Phase: EARLY_PHASE1 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Virtual windows tested to boost teacher mood – study pulled before start
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if putting up virtual windows (screens showing outdoor scenes) in windowless classrooms could improve teachers' mood. It was designed for teachers at one school in the Bronx, but the study was withdrawn before any teachers took part. No results are availab…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Brain zap study for suicide thoughts pulled before start
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study was designed to see if a fast-acting form of brain stimulation (called accelerated TMS) could reduce suicidal thoughts in people hospitalized with major depression. It was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled, so no results are available. The goal was to und…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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Scientists test ultrasound waves on anesthetized brains
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether focused ultrasound can alter the effects of propofol, a common anesthesia drug. Ten healthy adults will receive both real and fake ultrasound during sedation. Researchers will measure brain signals and responses to commands to understand how ultrasound…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:48 UTC
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Scientists hunt for cancer clues in blood and tissue
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study collects blood, tumor tissue, and other body fluids from 1,000 adults with lung cancer, thymus cancer, or mesothelioma. Researchers analyze these samples to find biological markers that could predict how cancer will behave or respond to treatments. The goal is to impro…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:15 UTC
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Virtual reality rehab for stroke patients put to the test
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if stroke survivors could use an augmented reality (AR) program for arm rehabilitation at home. Researchers planned to measure how often participants completed their 30-minute sessions over 8 weeks and whether they could perform a remote assessment. The st…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:15 UTC
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New app lets kids with cancer tell doctors how they feel
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study tests a digital tool that lets children, teens, and young adults with cancer, along with their caregivers, report symptoms during clinic visits. The goal is to see if doctors find this information useful and easy to use. About 83 participants will help researchers unde…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:15 UTC
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Stanford scientists map Brain's role in seizures and memory
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at how two small parts of the brain's thalamus are involved in spreading seizures and forming memories. Researchers will record brain activity from 100 epilepsy patients who already have electrodes implanted. The goal is to better understand these brain connectio…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:14 UTC
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New scan may predict brain tumor treatment success
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study looks at whether a special imaging technique (DMI) can help predict how well a new drug (BPM31510) works in people with glioblastoma, a serious brain cancer. About 10 participants will receive the drug alongside standard treatment and undergo imaging scans. The goal is…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:05 UTC
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CT scans could make heart bypass surgery smarter
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study tests whether advanced CT imaging can help doctors plan and perform coronary artery bypass surgery more effectively. About 200 adults scheduled for bypass surgery will receive CT scans before and after the procedure to measure blood flow in the heart. The goal is to se…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:04 UTC
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Nailbed injury study pulled before it even started
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study was designed to find out whether removing the nail plate improves healing for people with nailbed injuries. It planned to track complications, pain, appearance, and hand function over time. However, the study was withdrawn before enrolling any participants, so no resul…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:04 UTC
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Can a smartphone app get older women moving?
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study tests two remote programs to help older women who are not very active become more physically active. About 232 women will use a step counter and either a citizen science approach to address neighborhood barriers or a health education program. The goal is to see which a…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:03 UTC
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Teen pain mystery: scientists hunt for clues to predict recovery
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study follows 275 teens aged 11–18 with chronic muscle or joint pain to find biological and behavioral clues that predict who will get better and who will continue to struggle. Participants report their pain levels and daily function over time. No new treatment is given; the…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:03 UTC
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Night shift survival: stanford tests lifestyle coaching for tired ER doctors
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if personalized lifestyle coaching could help emergency medicine residents stay alert and perform better during night shifts. The researchers planned to compare reaction time, sleepiness, and well-being between a coached group and a control group. However,…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:03 UTC
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Can an AI voice assistant help heart failure patients talk to their doctors?
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether an AI voice assistant can accurately record health information reported by people with heart failure. About 100 adults receiving heart care at Stanford will use the tool. The goal is to see if speech-to-text can help patients share their symptoms and conc…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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AI tutor for eye surgery: chatbot aims to clear up lens confusion
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a short AI-powered explanation (like a smart pamphlet) can help cataract patients better understand their artificial lens choices before talking to their doctor. About 70 adults will be split into two groups: one gets standard care, the other gets standar…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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Can we predict who will have memory trouble after surgery? stanford launches a major study.
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study is creating a large database of information from 250 older adults (65+) having surgery. Researchers collect blood samples, brain wave recordings, and memory tests before and up to a year after surgery. The goal is to find patterns that could one day help doctors predic…
Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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Mind over malignancy: study explores power of positive thinking in cancer fight
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if a cancer patient's mindset—their beliefs about their illness and their body—could affect their quality of life and treatment outcomes. Researchers planned to follow newly diagnosed patients through treatment and test a brief program to encourage helpful…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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Could your pregnancy diet shape your Baby's microbiome?
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at how eating fermented foods (like yogurt) and fiber-rich foods (like vegetables) during pregnancy changes the gut bacteria of mothers and their babies. Researchers will track 135 pregnant women and their infants to see if diet affects the types of bacteria pass…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:00 UTC
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Brain scan breakthrough: personalized OCD therapy on the horizon?
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study aims to find brain-based subtypes of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and see how people respond to two different brain stimulation targets. 212 adults with moderate to severe OCD will have brain scans before and after treatment. The goal is to learn which brain pat…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Stanford University • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:00 UTC