Evaluating exhaled isoprene levels in cardiac surgery patients

Prognostic Value of Exhaled Isoprene Levels for Morbidity and Functional Outcome in Cardiosurgical Patients - A Single Center Prospective Observational Cohort Study

University of Rostock · NCT06175429

This study is testing if measuring a chemical in the breath can help doctors understand how well older patients will recover after heart surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment66 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Rostock (other)
Locations1 site (Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern)
Trial IDNCT06175429 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the prognostic value of exhaled isoprene as a biomarker for skeletal muscle integrity and functional outcomes in patients aged 65 and older undergoing cardiac surgery. Participants will undergo comprehensive clinical evaluations, breath analysis, and muscle ultrasound before, during, and after surgery. The study hypothesizes that isoprene levels correlate with postoperative physical performance and morbidity, and differ between frail and non-frail patients. By identifying high-risk individuals early, appropriate preventive measures can be initiated to improve patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients aged 65 and older who are scheduled for planned cardiac surgery lasting more than 60 minutes.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with acute myocardial infarction, severe chronic illnesses, or those undergoing emergency surgery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved identification and management of frail patients undergoing cardiac surgery, enhancing their postoperative recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of volatile organic compounds as biomarkers is a growing field, the specific application of exhaled isoprene in this context has not been extensively tested, making this approach relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \>= 65 years
* planned cardiac surgery
* operation duration \>60 min

Exclusion Criteria:

* refusal of study participation
* emergency / urgent surgery
* acute myocardial infarction
* acute or chronic infection
* Pre-existing illness with permanent restriction of mobility
* Pre-existing neuromuscular disease
* current malignant disease
* terminal renal insufficiency
* severe liver cirrhosis
* severe obstructive pulmonary disease

Where this trial is running

Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Frailty, Muscle Weakness, Volatile Organic Compounds, Isoprene

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.