Analyzing Right Ventricular Function During LVAD Implantation

Three-Dimensional Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Observational University of Alberta · NCT05376254

This study is testing if 3D imaging can help doctors see how well the right side of the heart is working during LVAD surgery to better predict which patients might have problems afterward.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages16 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alberta Academic / other
Locations1 site (Edmonton, Alberta)
Trial IDNCT05376254 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the right ventricle's function in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation using 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The right ventricle is crucial for pumping blood to the lungs, and its failure can complicate LVAD procedures. By capturing 3D images during the implantation, researchers hope to better predict which patients are at higher risk of right ventricular failure within 14 days post-procedure. This approach seeks to improve patient outcomes by identifying those who may need closer monitoring or additional interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients receiving specific types of left-sided LVADs, such as HeartMate III, HeartWare HVAD, or Levitronix CentriMag.

Not a fit: Patients who have concurrent procedures affecting cardiac geometry or those with contraindications to transesophageal echocardiography may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved risk assessment and management strategies for patients undergoing LVAD implantation.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of 3D echocardiography is becoming more common, this specific approach to assessing right ventricular function during LVAD implantation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients will be eligible to be included in the study if they receive either a left-sided:

  1. HeartMate III (Thoratec, Pleasanton, CA)
  2. HeartWare HVAD (HeartWare, Oakville CA)
  3. Levitronix CentriMag (Levitronix LLC, Waltham, MA) LVAD.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients will be excluded if::

  1. hemodynamic data needed to calculate PAPi or comprehensive echocardiographic images are missing
  2. additional procedures affecting cardiac geometry and/or hemodynamic measurements, such as tricuspid, mitral, and/or aortic valve repair/replacement, were performed at the time of LVAD implantation
  3. sternal closure at the end of the procedure is not possible
  4. RV mechanical support was introduced concurrently with LVAD implantation
  5. inadequate image quality required to obtain a 3D protocol
  6. known contraindication to TEE
  7. unexpected inability to advance probe into the mid-esophagus

Where this trial is running

Edmonton, Alberta

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Heart FailureRight Ventricular FunctionLeft Ventricular Assist Device3D transesophageal echocardiography
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.