Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Phase 3 Interventional Ages 18 and up

Comparing Heparin and Placebo in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization

Official title: A Randomized Trial of Heparin vs Placebo in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization Via the Trans-radial Approach

Run by London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's · NCT04374799 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether different doses of heparin can help prevent complications like bruising and artery blockage in patients getting a heart procedure through their wrist.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment1623 (estimated)
SponsorLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hamilton, Ontario and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 5, 2020
Main results expectedAugust 2026
Study endsDecember 2026
Registry record updatedFebruary 20, 2026
Trial IDNCT04374799 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include patients scheduled for diagnostic cardiac catheterization with a small size sheath and normal ulno-palmar circulation.

Probably not a fit

Patients with abnormal ulno-palmar circulation, prior radial artery thrombosis, or those requiring anticoagulation may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of different doses of heparin compared to a placebo in patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization via the trans-radial approach. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either low-dose heparin, high-dose heparin, or a saline placebo. The study aims to assess the incidence of hematoma and radial artery occlusion following the procedure. By evaluating these outcomes, the trial seeks to determine the optimal anticoagulation strategy for this patient population.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved safety and outcomes for patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have explored anticoagulation strategies in cardiac procedures, suggesting potential benefits, but this specific approach is being tested for the first time.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnostic cardiac catheterization; Small size sheath; patency of the ulno-palmar circulation

Exclusion Criteria:

abnormal ulno-palmar circulation; Prior radial artery thrombosis; Prior surgery close to the access site; Emergent cardiac catheterization; History of HIT or allergy to heparin; Patients requiring anticoagulation

Where it's running

  • Hamilton Health Sciences
    Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
    Recruiting
  • London Health Sciences Centre
    London, Ontario, Canada
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.