Veterinary Clinical Trials Network

For pet owners in Maryland, ensuring the best possible care for their beloved companions often means seeking out cutting-edge solutions and specialized expertise. The Veterinary Clinical Trials Network (VCTN) in Baltimore, MD, situated within the esteemed Johns Hopkins University, represents a unique and invaluable resource for those looking for advanced diagnostic capabilities and opportunities to participate in veterinary clinical research. This is not a traditional veterinary clinic for routine check-ups, but rather a highly specialized facility focused on advanced imaging, diagnostics, and clinical trials that contribute to breakthroughs in both animal and human medicine.

The VCTN leverages the extensive research and medical infrastructure of Johns Hopkins to offer state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, including MRI, CT scans, and other advanced techniques, specifically tailored for veterinary patients. Furthermore, it serves as a crucial hub for veterinary clinical trials, where pets with specific conditions may be eligible to receive innovative treatments and contribute to scientific advancements. For Maryland pet owners whose animals may be facing complex health challenges, or those interested in contributing to the future of veterinary medicine, the VCTN provides access to resources and expertise that are often unavailable in general veterinary practices.

The Veterinary Clinical Trials Network is strategically located at 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA. This address places it squarely within the Johns Hopkins Medicine campus in East Baltimore, a world-renowned hub for medical research and patient care. While the specific building or entrance within such a large medical complex may require prior coordination, its location within a major medical institution signifies its access to cutting-edge technology and a wealth of medical expertise.

For Maryland residents, particularly those in the Baltimore metropolitan area and surrounding regions, accessibility to such a specialized facility is a significant advantage. Being part of the Johns Hopkins campus, the VCTN benefits from established transportation links and accessibility. While parking within a dense urban medical campus can sometimes require planning, detailed instructions for referring veterinarians and patient owners are typically provided to ensure a smooth visit. Its central location in Baltimore makes it accessible for clients seeking advanced diagnostic imaging or clinical trial participation for their pets from across the state.

The Veterinary Clinical Trials Network at Johns Hopkins Radiology specializes in advanced diagnostic imaging and serves as a crucial component of veterinary clinical research. Their services are highly specialized and typically accessed through referrals from primary veterinarians.

• Advanced Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging: Offering a wide range of sophisticated imaging modalities tailored for pets, including:
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI - 1.5T and 3T)
  • Computed Tomography (CT scan)
  • Cone-beam CT
  • CT angiography (CTA)
  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET scan) and PET/CT
  • Spiral CT
  • SPECT-CT
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Myelogram
  • Whole-body cancer scan
  • Liver scan, Lung scan
• Veterinary Anesthesia and Pain Management: State-of-the-art anesthetic equipment and highly skilled teams to ensure the safety and well-being of animals during imaging procedures and interventions. Led by experts in veterinary anesthesia, sedation, and pain management.
• Image-Guided Interventions: Performing minimally invasive procedures such as:
  • Image-Guided Tissue Biopsy (MRI-, CT-, and ultrasound-guided biopsies)
  • Interventional Radiology Procedures (e.g., image-guided cryoablation, embolic therapy)
  • Radiosynoviorthesis
  • Transarterial Embolization and Chemoembolization
• Veterinary Clinical Trials: Facilitating and conducting clinical trials aimed at discovering novel diagnostics and treatments for various veterinary patient conditions. These trials often focus on diseases that parallel human conditions, contributing to "comparative medicine."
• Research Focus Areas: Current and past clinical trials cover a wide range of conditions, including:
  • Canine Cancer Clinical Trials (e.g., for hemangiosarcoma, metastatic prostate cancer)
  • Neurological diseases (e.g., epilepsy in specific breeds)
  • Genetic mapping studies for various conditions (e.g., Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, feline diabetes mellitus)
  • Cardiology (e.g., Dilated Cardiomyopathy related to diet)
  • Dermatology (e.g., Canine Familial Dermatomyositis)
  • Internal medicine conditions (e.g., pancreatic disease in cats)
• Collaboration with Referring Veterinarians: A key aspect of their service involves close collaboration with primary care veterinarians, providing comprehensive reports and images for integrated patient care. They require medical records, prior imaging, and lab results for all referred patients.
• Radiology Report and Image Delivery: Images are sent to a veterinary radiologist for evaluation, and a copy of images and reports are sent to the referring veterinarian, typically within one business day for routine cases.

The Veterinary Clinical Trials Network at Johns Hopkins Radiology is distinguished by several unique features and highlights that position it as a leader in advanced veterinary care and research in Maryland.

• Integration with Johns Hopkins Medicine: Being part of Johns Hopkins University’s renowned medical campus provides unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology, multidisciplinary expertise, and a robust research environment. This allows for the translation of human medical advancements into veterinary applications.
• Specialized Advanced Imaging: Unlike general veterinary practices, VCTN offers a comprehensive suite of advanced diagnostic imaging capabilities (MRI, CT, PET/CT, etc.) specifically for animals, enabling precise diagnoses for complex conditions.
• Expertise in Veterinary Anesthesia: Led by Dr. Rebecca Krimins, a specialist in veterinary anesthesia, sedation, and pain management, the facility ensures that all imaging and interventional procedures are conducted with the highest level of patient safety and comfort.
• Focus on Clinical Research and Translational Medicine: VCTN plays a vital role in advancing veterinary medicine by conducting clinical trials. This not only offers innovative treatment options for pets with challenging conditions but also contributes to understanding diseases common to both animals and humans (e.g., cancer, neurological disorders).
• Benefits for Trial Participants: Pets participating in clinical trials may gain access to novel treatments, medications, or services that are not yet widely available, often at reduced or no cost, while also contributing to scientific discovery.
• Collaborative Approach: The network works closely with referring veterinarians, ensuring seamless communication and integrated care plans for pets undergoing advanced diagnostics or trial participation.
• High Standards of Care and Ethics: As part of a major academic institution, VCTN adheres to rigorous scientific and ethical standards in all its research and clinical activities, ensuring the welfare of animal subjects.
• Leadership in Veterinary Radiology: The facility represents a revolutionary center leveraging Hopkins' platforms to transform newly discovered diagnostics and therapeutics into practical approaches benefiting veterinary patients.

For inquiries regarding advanced diagnostic imaging, clinical trial participation, or referral processes, you can contact the Veterinary Clinical Trials Network using the following information:

Address: 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA

Phone: (410) 614-0105

Mobile Phone: +1 410-614-0105

It is important for pet owners to discuss with their primary veterinarian if a referral to VCTN for advanced imaging or clinical trial participation is appropriate for their pet's specific condition. The VCTN team typically requires detailed medical records, prior imaging, and lab results to evaluate eligibility and prepare for appointments.

In conclusion, for Maryland pet owners seeking highly specialized diagnostic imaging or innovative treatment options through clinical trials, the Veterinary Clinical Trials Network in Baltimore offers an unparalleled resource. Its unique position within Johns Hopkins University provides access to world-class medical expertise, advanced technology, and a dedicated team focused on advancing veterinary medicine. For those whose pets face complex health challenges, or for owners who wish to contribute to the future of animal and even human health, VCTN presents an extraordinary opportunity.

While not a primary care clinic for routine check-ups, its role as a referral center for advanced diagnostics and clinical research makes it an invaluable part of the Maryland veterinary landscape. For local residents, this means access to cutting-edge care that can significantly impact a pet's quality of life and contribute to broader scientific understanding. The VCTN embodies a commitment to excellence and innovation, making it a highly suitable and sought-after destination for specialized veterinary care in Maryland.

Veterinary Clinical Trials Network

600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA