Evaluating cardiac output measurement methods in critically ill patients on life support

Correlation of Cardiac Output Determined by Echocardiography and Indirect Calorimetry in Critically Ill Patients in Cardiogenic Shock on Extracorporeal Circulatory Life Support

Observational Universität Münster · NCT06369818

This study is testing if a method that measures energy use can accurately estimate heart function in critically ill patients on life support.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversität Münster Academic / other
Locations1 site (Münster)
Trial IDNCT06369818 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the correlation between cardiac output measured by indirect calorimetry and transthoracic echocardiography in critically ill patients experiencing cardiogenic shock who are on extracorporeal life support (ECLS). The study aims to determine if indirect calorimetry, a method typically used to assess energy expenditure, can reliably estimate cardiac output in these patients. By comparing these two measurement techniques, the research seeks to enhance the understanding of cardiac function during critical care. This could lead to improved monitoring and management strategies for patients in severe cardiac distress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have undergone cardiac surgery and require extracorporeal life support during the perioperative period.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a dependency relationship with the study sponsor will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more reliable method for assessing cardiac output in critically ill patients, potentially improving their treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the correlation between indirect calorimetry and echocardiography in this specific context has not been conclusively established, similar studies have explored these methods in other critical care settings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients that received cardiac surgery
2. Perioperative requirement of extracorporeal life support (ECLS)
3. Age ≥ 18 years
4. Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
2. Relationship or dependency with the study sponsor
3. Expected survival less than 72 hours after screening

Where this trial is running

Münster

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 Cardiogenic ShockIndirect calorimetrycardiac outputCardiopulmonary bypassExtracorporal circulationCardiac Surgery
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.