The province will provide up to $1 million for an observational study that will examine the safety and effects of a new treatment for people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
"This observational study is about obtaining more research to help fill the evidence void that currently exists," said Health Minister Gene Zwozdesky.
The study will essentially be a web-based questionnaire for Albertans who have received treatment for CCSVI in another country, those who are scheduled to receive it and other Albertans with MS. It will be conducted by researchers from the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and other experts.
Italian researcher Dr. Paolo Zamboni claims many MS patients have narrow veins. He developed a procedure similar to angioplasty to improve blood flow to the brain.
"This study is a response to the remarkable interest amongst MS patients in the new MS treatment proposed by Dr. Zamboni," said Dr. Tom Feasby, Dean of the University of Calgary's Faculty of Medicine. "It will help us understand the experiences of MS patients having this intervention, including any complications."
The province says the goal of the observational study is to determine the safety and patient-reported impact of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) treatment procedures.
One man says his life before his liberation treatment was unbearable. Jason Kaye had virtually no mobility and could barely stay awake before he travelled to Poland for the surgery.
"Before I was one step forward and two steps back now I'm two steps forward one step backward gaining strength everyday, I'm staying awake longer and longer."
The study hopes to examine at least 500 Albertans with MS. Those who participate will be asked to fill out a questionnaire on their symptoms, medical history and possible complication if they've already the surgery.
The province plans to use that information to determine whether to move forward with future clinical trials.
"I'd be prepared to commit probably up to $6 million dollars if safety and efficiency are proven and if a clinical trial is chosen to be the next step," said Zwozdesky.
Currently, the venous procedures are not approved for use in Canada.
The three-year observational study will begin in spring 2011.
With files from Scott Roberts
