Analyzing the properties of thoracic aortic aneurysms
BIOMECHANICAL AND MICROSTRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF THE AORTIC WALL: A Pilot Study in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Ascending Aortic Aneurysms
Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven · NCT03142074
This study is trying to create a new tool to better understand thoracic aortic aneurysms and help doctors assess the risk of serious complications for patients with this condition.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 180 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Leuven, Vlaams Brabant) |
| Trial ID | NCT03142074 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on thoracic aortic aneurysms, which are permanent dilatations of the aorta that can lead to life-threatening complications. The aim is to develop a new diagnostic tool based on biomechanical and microstructural properties of the aneurysms, as current diagnostic criteria are insufficient. The study will create a unique dataset from patient data, including characteristics, geometry, and tissue properties, obtained through analysis of resected tissue and dynamic imaging techniques. By improving the understanding of aneurysm behavior, the study seeks to enhance risk assessment for rupture or dissection.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients suffering from thoracic aortic aneurysms, whether asymptomatic or symptomatic, as well as those undergoing emergency surgery for ruptured aneurysms.
Not a fit: Patients with ruptured aortic aneurysms due to trauma or those with features preventing tissue sample collection may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better risk assessments for patients with thoracic aortic aneurysms.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using biomechanical and microstructural analysis is promising, it is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients suffering from thoracic aortic aneurysms (ATAA), asymptomatic or symptomatic. * Patients with ruptured ATAA undergoing an emergency surgery. * Signed informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with ruptured ATAA due to trauma. * The presence of any aneurysm feature that will prevent the collection of tissue samples suitable for the biomechanical and microstructural studies.
Where this trial is running
Leuven, Vlaams Brabant
- UZ Leuven — Leuven, Vlaams Brabant, Belgium (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Bart Meuris, PhD — UZ Leuven
- Study coordinator: Nele Famaey, PhD
- Email: nele.famaey@kuleuven.be
- Phone: 016 32 89 80
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms, Improve diagnosis