Comparing inhaled and intravenous milrinone for severe pulmonary hypertension during heart surgery

Comparative Study Between Inhaled and Intravenous Milrinone in Patients With Severe Pulmonary Hypertension Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Phase 4 Interventional Zagazig University · NCT04484675

This study is testing whether giving milrinone through inhalation or an IV is better and safer for patients with severe pulmonary hypertension during heart surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment38 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorZagazig University Government
Locations1 site (Zagazig, Sharqia Province)
Trial IDNCT04484675 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of inhaled versus intravenous milrinone in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension who are scheduled for cardiac surgery. Milrinone is commonly used as an inotropic agent and pulmonary vasodilator, but intravenous administration can lead to systemic hypotension and increased need for other vasoactive medications. By comparing these two methods of administration, the study aims to determine which approach is more effective and safer for patients undergoing mitral valve surgery. The study will involve patients with a specific mean pulmonary artery pressure as assessed by preoperative echocardiography.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients scheduled for mitral valve surgery with a mean pulmonary artery pressure of 55 mmHg or higher.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with severe left ventricular dysfunction, hemodynamic instability, or contraindications to the study interventions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management of pulmonary hypertension in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, potentially reducing complications and improving outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of milrinone is established, this specific comparison of inhaled versus intravenous administration in this patient population is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients scheduled to undergo mitral valve surgery by cardiopulmonary bypass with estimated mean pulmonary artery pressure =\>55 estimated by using preoperative Doppler echocardiography

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients were excluded if they had surgery without CPB, preoperative hemodynamic instability (defined as acute requirement for vasoactive support or mechanical device),Patients with severe LV dysfunction (LV ejection fraction of less than 30% congenital heart disease, a contraindication to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), emergency surgery or re-do surgeries severe renal or hepatic disease

, coagulopathy, and thromboembolic disease treated with anticoagulants

Where this trial is running

Zagazig, Sharqia Province

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 Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.