Clinical Cardiovascular Research Laboratory for the Elderly (CCRLE)
The Clinical Cardiovascular Research Laboratory for the Elderly (CCRLE) at NewYork-Presbyterian Allen Hospital is dedicated to investigating how age-related changes in the heart and blood vessels affect the development of illnesses that disproportionately affect the elderly. Our staff perform tilt table testing for patients who experience unexplained loss of consciousness. In addition to this clinical service, we conduct research studies investigating a variety of conditions, such as:
- Syncope (fainting)
- Cardiovascular causes of falls
- Heart failure, particularly in patients with a normally pumping heart
- Isolated systolic hypertension
- Infiltrative disorders of the heart (amyloidosis, iron overload)
- Effects of chemotherapy on heart function
Our Testing Services
The (CCRLE) is equipped with sophisticated noninvasive techniques, including:
- Three-dimensional echocardiography
- Color and tissue Doppler for evaluation of diastolic cardiac function
- Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
- Measurement of plasma volume
- Measures of the properties of veins
- Baroreflex sensitivity and other evaluation of autonomic reflexes
- Evaluations of vascular stiffness
We perform these tests within the parameters of each research protocol, and as such patients must be enrolled in order to receive them at this laboratory. Eligible patients may be referred by their physicians or through Allen Hospital's HealthOutreach Program. Some protocols also require the participation of healthy control subjects of all ages. For some studies, financial payment is offered to offset the costs of participation.