During Women’s Health Month in May, the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation (MHIF) is proudly celebrating a special milestone moment: the successful enrollment of a patient in a clinical trial of the BrioVAD technology led by an all-female team, from the cardiac surgeon to the nurses and research staff.
This achievement represents more than a clinical benchmark. It reflects the strength, expertise, and leadership of women advancing the future of cardiovascular care.
The INNOVATE clinical trial is evaluating a next-generation ventricular assist device (VAD) designed to support patients living with advanced heart failure. VADs play a critical role for individuals awaiting transplant or those who are not transplant candidates, offering hope with another option currently available through research.
Clinical trials are essential to bringing new technologies safely and effectively to patients. Each enrollment marks a step forward in expanding treatment options and improving outcomes for people facing one of the most challenging cardiovascular conditions.
Another important topic related to women in research is related to representation in clinical trials. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, yet women have historically been underrepresented in both research participation and leadership roles within cardiology. At MHIF, we are committed to changing that narrative.
A retrospective review of sponsored clinical research trials conducted from January 2022 through July 2025 by MHIF’s Penny Anderson Women’s Cardiovascular Center found that women accounted for 41% of participants, compared with 59% men. This is on par, or above national averages depending on specialty area. Notably, women were nearly equally represented in trials within our valve, prevention, and heart rhythm research.
