Comparing magnetic stimulation methods for treating ventricular tachycardia storms

Randomized Assessment of the Efficacy of Transcutaneous Magnetic Stimulation in Patients With Ventricular Tachycardia Storm

Not applicable Interventional University of Pennsylvania · NCT05599022

This study is testing two different types of magnetic stimulation treatments to see which one helps people with ventricular tachycardia storms feel better compared to a fake treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania Academic / other
Locations1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT05599022 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of two different strategies of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TcMS) in patients experiencing ventricular tachycardia (VT) storms. It is a three-arm randomized trial that compares TcMS with theta burst stimulation (TBS) and low-frequency TcMS against a sham stimulation group. The primary hypothesis is that TcMS will significantly reduce the burden of VT within 24 hours post-randomization compared to sham stimulation. The study aims to determine which TcMS approach is more effective in managing this critical condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who have experienced three or more episodes of sustained ventricular tachycardia or appropriate ICD therapies within 24 hours despite antiarrhythmic drug treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are scheduled for catheter ablation of VT within the next 24 hours or have contraindications to TcMS will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel non-invasive treatment option for patients suffering from recurrent ventricular tachycardia.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using TcMS for VT storms is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using magnetic stimulation for other neurological and cardiac conditions, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥3 episodes of sustained VT or appropriate ICD therapies within 24 hours despite the use of at least one antiarrhythmic drug

Exclusion Criteria:

* Plan for catheter ablation of VT in the next 24 hours
* Pregnancy
* Contraindication to TcMS (i.e. implantable ventricular assist device, metal implanted in the head or neck \[except the mouth\], implanted medication pumps, cochlear implant, implanted brain stimulator, ocular implant, history of malignancy in the neck)

Where this trial is running

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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 Ventricular Tachycardia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.