Surgical Laboratory Research

Surgical Innovation and Translational Research Labs

Atrium Health's surgical laboratory research team works with various surgical specialties to conduct translational, clinical and outcomes studies. This collaboration of clinician-researchers and scientists working in close partnership leads to a better understanding of the physiology and pathogenesis of various human disease states. Our surgical laboratories also serve as a training ground for physicians and scientists at all stages of their careers.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cancer Biology Lab

The primary research focus of this lab is to determine why certain people develop hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common primary tumor of the liver. Our clinician-researchers are conducting bench-based research to identify factors that change the rate of disease progression. Two such factors include alcohol and obesity.

Additionally, our researchers are interested in understanding the environmental factors that impact the pathogenesis of and tumor development in liver cancer. They’re working to identify unique targets in tumors that impact the development and/or rate of growth of tumors. This can lead to the development of novel agents to stop that process

Hepatocellular Carcinoma Translational Research Lab

Working closely with the HPB surgeons and Levine Cancer Institute, researchers in the hepatocellular carcinoma translational research lab conduct research projects with both in-house investigators and industry sponsors to develop more effective ablation therapy technologies. In addition to assisting with initial product development and testing, they’re also engaged in clinical trials for emerging technology.

Current research efforts include:

• 3D guidance systems for ablation needles
• Minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques for resections and ablations
• Next generation ablation technology, including non-thermal techniques for performing ablation

The lab is staffed by postdoctoral fellows and highly qualified technicians with the equipment and resources necessary to conduct trials of all sizes and complexities.