Heart care research at Banner Health has provided successful results that make a difference in patient's lives. Such research has allowed patients to avoid open-heart surgery through the use of coronary stents, increased mobility due to the use of closure devices and a choice between invasive and non-invasive procedures for carotid stenting.

The Banner Health Research Institute works with Banner Health facilities and investigators to ensure the proper review and approval of research study proposals; monitor compliance with federal, state, and local institutional policies; provide educational programs and training for investigators, research staff, and facility administration; provide technical assistance in the management of current research studies; and ensure research compliance exists throughout the organization.

In recent years, advancements in heart surgery include investigational drugs that allow patients to recover from cardiac bypass more quickly. Other projects allow physicians access to investigational heart valves and agents that potentially minimize bleeding complications during open-heart surgery. Additionally, patients admitted with acute coronary syndrome are now given therapy to stop blood clotting within specific time frames.