Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 19 and up

Evaluating coronary microvascular dysfunction in heart failure patients

Official title: The Role of Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction in Improving Left Ventricular Systolic Function Using Registry for Evaluation of Factors associatEd With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction Caused by Non-ischemic Etiology (REFERENCE).

Run by Samsung Medical Center · NCT06243653 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to see if problems with tiny blood vessels in the heart affect how well people with heart failure can improve their heart function after treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages19 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment200 (estimated)
SponsorSamsung Medical Center
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Seoul)
StatusRecruiting
StartedAugust 9, 2023
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2026
Study endsDecember 31, 2027
Registry record updatedFebruary 6, 2024
Trial IDNCT06243653 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 19 and older with symptoms of heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40% or less due to non-ischemic causes.

Probably not a fit

Patients with significant coronary artery stenosis, those scheduled for cardiac replacement therapy, or those with other specific cardiac conditions 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 observational study investigates the incidence of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and its prognostic implications for improving left ventricular function in patients diagnosed with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) due to non-ischemic causes. The study will utilize invasive physiological assessments to evaluate CMD, specifically measuring coronary flow reserve (CFR) and the index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR). By understanding the relationship between CMD and left ventricular function improvement after guideline-directed medical treatment, the study aims to provide insights into the management of HFrEF patients. The findings could help identify patients at risk for irreversible myocardial damage.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better management strategies for heart failure patients, potentially improving their heart function and overall prognosis.

How similar studies have gone: While there is limited data on this specific relationship, similar studies have explored CMD in heart failure, indicating potential for meaningful insights.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* a) Subject must be at least 19 years of age. b) Subject with symptoms or signs of HF (NYHA ≥2 dyspnea) and reduced ejection fraction (LVEF ≤ 40%) c) Subject who clinically need coronary angiography d) Subject who can voluntarily sign informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* a) Subject with significant coronary artery stenosis on coronary angiography (diameter stenosis ≥90% or 50-90% with fractional flow reserve \[FFR\] ≤0.80) b) Subject scheduled for cardiac replacement therapy (heart transplantation or left ventricular assisted device \[LVAD\] implantation) c) HF due to restrictive cardiomyopathy, active myocarditis, or constrictive pericarditis d) Significant valvular heart disease requiring surgery e) Subject who have non-cardiac co-morbid conditions with life expectancy \<1 year

Where it's running

  • Samsung Medical Center
    Seoul, South Korea
    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.